BERWYN, Ill. — A tragic scene unfolded outside Lincoln Middle School on Tuesday afternoon when a domestic-related shooting claimed the lives of three people, including the suspected gunman. The incident sent shockwaves through the west suburban community of Berwyn, prompting a swift lockdown of the school and a large-scale police response.
Shooting Erupts Near School Grounds
According to Berwyn police, the shooting occurred around 4:05 p.m. near the 6400 block of West 16th Street, directly outside Lincoln Middle School. Officers in the area reportedly heard gunfire and immediately responded to the scene.
Authorities said they witnessed a man firing a rifle into another vehicle. When officers approached, the gunman turned his weapon toward them and opened fire. The officers quickly took cover but did not return fire, police confirmed.
Moments later, the situation ended when the suspect died from what authorities believe to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Three Confirmed Dead
Police said three people were found dead at the scene, including the suspected shooter. While officials have not released the identities of the victims, the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that all three fatalities were tied to the same domestic-related incident.
Division Commander Michael Fellows of the Berwyn Police Department stressed during a briefing that the tragedy appeared to stem from a domestic dispute and that there is no further threat to the community.
Lincoln Middle School Placed on Lockdown
During the chaos, Lincoln Middle School was placed on a “hard lockdown” as a precaution. Staff and students sheltered in place while police secured the area.
Thankfully, no students or school personnel were harmed during the incident. The lockdown was lifted later in the evening once authorities confirmed the scene was secure.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The West Suburban Major Crimes Task Force forensic team remained at the scene late Tuesday night, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. Police have urged anyone with firsthand information about the shooting to contact investigators.
“This is a devastating tragedy for our community,” Commander Fellows said. “Our officers responded swiftly and with bravery. We are grateful no additional lives were lost beyond the initial incident.”
Officials emphasized that the case remains an active and ongoing investigation, with more details — including the identities of the victims — expected to be released in the coming days.
A Community in Mourning
Residents of Berwyn expressed shock and sadness, particularly given that the violence occurred just outside a school filled with children. Parents rushed to pick up their children after the lockdown was lifted, many describing the moment as “the scariest day of their lives.”
Local leaders have promised additional support for both the victims’ families and the school community, with counselors expected to be available for students and staff in the coming days.
Leave a Reply