Man With Chainsaw Shot by Police After Attacking Assisted Living Center in St. Charles

On Sunday, December 1, 2024, at approximately 8:45 a.m., St. Charles Police Officers were dispatched for a “check the welfare” call in the 900 block of North 5th Avenue. Witnesses reported that a shirtless male was holding a chainsaw and attempting to cut down a tree on the property of the River Glen of St. Charles, an assisted living center.

Just before police arrival, witnesses advised the subject had gained entry to the lobby of the building and began confronting residents with the chainsaw. Arriving officers attempted to de-escalate the situation; however, the suspect continued his attempts to use the chainsaw against residents of the building and the officers. A taser was deployed on the suspect but his attack continued. An officer was then forced to fire his service weapon, striking the suspect.

First aid was immediately rendered; however, the suspect was later pronounced deceased at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital. Residents of the assisted living facility and responding officers were treated at the scene for minor injuries.