The Chicago Police Department identified on April 26 the officer killed in a shooting at Swedish Hospital as John Bartholomew.
Bartholomew was one of two officers shot by a robbery suspect who opened fire and escaped from custody Saturday morning at Swedish Hospital, located at 5140 North California Avenue, according to Chicago police officials. The incident led to an immediate response from law enforcement and a manhunt near the hospital.
Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said Bartholomew, aged 38, had served with the department for ten years and was assigned to the Albany Park (17th) District. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office reported that Bartholomew died of a gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead just before 1 p.m. Saturday. A second officer, who has been with the force for twenty-one years, remained in critical condition as of Sunday morning.
According to police statements, around 10:50 a.m., officers brought a man into custody for suspected robbery to Swedish Hospital for treatment when he shot two officers before escaping. Both wounded officers were taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center where Bartholomew was pronounced dead. The suspect’s escape prompted a SWAT response; he was later apprehended near the hospital and authorities recovered a weapon but did not specify its ownership.
Bartholomew grew up in suburban Morton Grove and lived in Edison Park. According to his family cited by local media, he was remembered as a father, stepfather, husband, and someone dedicated to public service.
The Chicago Police Department declined on Sunday to confirm further details about Bartholomew or provide his photograph “out of respect for the family,” according to a spokesperson. “We ask that you keep the families of these officers in your prayers,” Superintendent Snelling said Saturday. “This is a lot to go through. These are the dangers of policing… our officers go out there every single day… knowing that when they go into these environments that they’re not safe.” No charges had been announced by Sunday morning.
