March 18, 2024 – A 38-year-old armed robbery suspect is dead after pulling a weapon during a stop by Decatur Police.
Decatur Police Chief Shane Brandel, along with Lisa Mitchell of the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 5, held a press conference Monday about the incident.
According to police, officers responded to an armed robbery at Decatur Discount on W. Grand at around 2:15pm. At approximately 3:50 pm, DPD officers spotted the suspect walking with 2 other people and stopped the three individuals at 600 West Grand.
During the encounter, the robbery suspect disobeyed commands and pulled a firearm from his coat, at which time two DPD officers fired their weapons, striking the suspect. The suspect was transported to DMH where he succumbed to his injuries. The suspect has only been identified as a 38-year-old white male from Decatur. Chief Shane Brandel did state that Decatur Police have had previous encounters with the suspect. Neither Decatur Police officer involved were injured.
After the shooting, the other subjects that were with the suspect, described as a white female and a black male, fled the scene and officers are still searching for them.
Chief Brandel stated that the Illinois State Police will conduct a standard investigation as per standard protocol. Also, per protocol, the Decatur Police Department will conduct its own internal investigation.
The incident was captured on body-cam and in-car video. Chief Brandel stated that he expects the videos to be released within a week once ISP and DPD can review them. Both officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, as is standard protocol, while the shooting is under investigation.
Brandel stated that further information will be released at a later time as the investigation continues.
