BELLEVILLE, Ill. — A man is dead after a confrontation with St. Clair County officers.
St. Clair County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a domestic disturbance in the 5000 block of Schmidt Lane Thursday evening. The incident involved an armed 69-year-old man who was firing gunshots several times before officers arrived.
A deputy fired his gun after the suspect, still armed, confronted several officers. The suspect later passed away from his wounds.
Sheriff Richard Watson has requested the Illinois State Police to conduct an independent investigation. This is in line with department policy. The identity of the suspect will be released after his family is notified.
Lt. James Hendricks, speaking for the Sheriff’s Department, noted that domestic violence calls and situations involving mental health crises continue to be among the most dangerous situations for law enforcement nationwide.
