On November 29, 2024, Oak Park Police Detective Allan Reddins, aged 40, was fatally shot while responding to a report of an armed individual leaving a bank on Lake Street in Oak Park, Illinois. Detective Reddins, who had been with the department since 2019, was the first Oak Park officer to die in the line of duty since 1938.
The incident began around 9:30 a.m. when officers, including Detective Reddins, approached the suspect, identified as 37-year-old Chicago resident Jerell Thomas, near the 800 block of Lake Street. Thomas, who had been seen leaving a local bank with a gun, failed to comply with officers' directives and opened fire, striking Detective Reddins on his left side. Other officers returned fire, injuring Thomas in the leg. Detective Reddins was transported to Loyola University Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after 10:00 a.m.
Thomas, described by authorities as a habitual criminal with a history of arrests for aggravated battery to a police officer, domestic battery, and resisting arrest, was charged by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office with first-degree murder, attempted murder of a peace officer, possession of a stolen firearm, and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon. He remains hospitalized under custody with non-life-threatening injuries.
Detective Reddins was remembered as a dedicated officer and family man, committed to his 19-year-old son, his mother, and siblings. Oak Park Police Chief Shatonya Johnson described him as a "natural born leader" with talents essential to the department. His tragic death has deeply affected the Oak Park Police Department and the wider community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and support.
Funeral services for Detective Reddins were held on December 12, 2024, at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago's Woodlawn neighborhood, with a large attendance of family, friends, fellow officers, and community members paying their respects. He was laid to rest following the service, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and dedication to public service.
