A routine call turned into a life-threatening situation Saturday night in Fairview Heights, Illinois, when three police officers were shot — one of them in the face — while responding to a report of a suspicious person. Authorities confirmed the suspect was arrested on the scene and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Suspect Opens Fire After Officers Confront Him
Fairview Heights Police responded to a call about a suspicious individual near a home on Potomac Drive at 9:44 p.m. According to a press release, officers encountered what appeared to be a domestic situation upon arrival. As they attempted to investigate, the suspect opened fire, hitting three officers.
The suspect was taken into custody at the scene, and a weapon was recovered. Police Chief Steve Johnson confirmed the suspect is currently being held by the Fairview Heights Police Department.
Critical Injuries and Emergency Response
One officer was shot in the face and rushed to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, where he underwent emergency surgery. He remains in critical but stable condition. A second officer sustained a gunshot wound to the arm, resulting in a broken bone. A third officer was struck in the back but was saved from serious injury by his bulletproof vest.
Two additional officers suffered injuries during a struggle with the suspect and were treated and released from local hospitals.
Large Police Presence at the Scene
Multiple metro-east law enforcement agencies responded to the scene, including departments from Belleville, Collinsville, East St. Louis, and Washington Park, as well as the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department and Illinois State Police. A police-escorted ambulance transported one of the injured officers to the hospital amid a swift and coordinated emergency response.
No Ongoing Threat, But Investigation Continues
Chief Johnson emphasized that the situation is under control and there is no active threat to the public. However, the investigation is still ongoing, and few details about the suspect or the motive have been released at this time.
“If it is your way, we ask for prayers for these officers,” Johnson stated. “They went on a call for service to help people and keep people safe. They ended up being shot and fighting for their lives doing their job.”
Conclusion
Saturday’s violent confrontation in Fairview Heights is a reminder of the daily risks law enforcement officers face in serving their communities. As the investigation continues, officials are urging patience and support for the injured officers and their families.