On Friday, November 29, 2024, Oak Park Police Detective Allan Reddins was tragically killed in the line of duty while responding to a report of an armed individual near a bank in Oak Park, a suburb west of Chicago.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. in the 800 block of Lake Street, not far from a Chase Bank. Detective Reddins, 40, was struck by a single bullet to his left side during a confrontation with the suspect. He was transported to Loyola University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The suspect, who has not been publicly identified, was also injured during the altercation, sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg. The individual is currently receiving medical treatment and is under police custody. Charges are expected to be filed as the investigation progresses.
Remembering a Dedicated Officer
Detective Reddins had served with the Oak Park Police Department since 2019. Police Chief Shatonya Johnson described him as a “natural-born leader” and a devoted “family man” who embodied the spirit of public service. His death marks the first line-of-duty fatality for the department in over 85 years.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our department and our community,” Chief Johnson said. “Detective Reddins was an exceptional officer who gave everything to protect the people of Oak Park.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, and no additional details about the armed suspect’s motives or actions have been released. Local residents have expressed shock and sadness over the loss of Detective Reddins, who was well-known for his dedication to the community.
A Community in Mourning
The death of Detective Reddins has cast a pall over Oak Park, as residents and fellow officers alike pay tribute to a man who gave his life in the line of duty. His bravery and service stand as a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily while protecting their communities.