Chicago police shooting: 2 shot in Pilsen incident near 18th, Morgan; persons of interest being interviewed, says the CPD

CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago police say two people were shot, including an innocent bystander, during an investigative stop in Pilsen Friday morning.

At approximately 6:52 a.m. in the 1000 block of West 18th Street, two officers from the Major Crash Unit were driving to the police training academy. Along the way, they saw four people wearing masks coming out of a closed business, according to police.

When one of the officers identified himself as a Chicago police officer, one of the individuals in the group allegedly pulled out a gun and an exchange of gunfire ensued, CPD Superintendent David Brown said Friday.

After the exchange of gunfire, both officers got out of their vehicle while the alleged shooter fled the scene, continuing to fire at officers, Brown added.

WATCH: CPD provides update on police-involved shooting in Pilsen

A witness said at least one person was shot by CPD in the incident.

A 23-year-old man, who police say was with the group, was struck by gunfire. He was last reported in serious but stable condition at a local hospital.

A 36-year-old bystander was also hit in the leg during the exchange, Brown said. He was taken to a local hospital in good condition.

Brown said they have not been able to determine whose gunfire struck the bystander or the other injured man at this time.

None of the officers were injured by gunfire, Brown added.

However, two officers were taken to Christ Hospital and Rush Hospital for shortness of breath, but are expected to be OK.

A woman walking to work in the area said she saw police shooting at a man. She also said she did not see any of the suspects in the area.

“No, just the cops. At first I thought it was gang related, but no. He was alone… I didn’t see anyone brandishing a gun. He was begging for help: He like “help me” , help me … is that what you all do, police officer? I have nothing on me; i’m here man And he just had his little hands up in the air asking for help,” said the woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Two adults and a 17-year-old were taken into custody and are being questioned by police, Brown said.

Brown said the gunman was able to get away, but police were “working diligently to arrest him.”

The incident drew a large police presence to the area around 7 a.m., and several clues could be seen on 18th Street.

One person is still at large, a male suspect between the ages of 17 and 22 wearing an orange polo shirt, police said.

The incident is being investigated by the police. The officers involved will be placed on administrative leave as the use of force is investigated by COPA.

Chicago police said 36 officers were shot or shot in 2022, which the department said was more than any other year on record.

“This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers an officer faces every day at every moment.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to send tips to cpdtip.com.