Suspect Charged With Injuring 2 CPD Officers In Traffic Stop

CHICAGO — A 28-year-old man has been charged with multiple felonies after Chicago police said he injured two officers during a traffic stop.

James Callion, of Chicago, has been charged with attempted first degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon by a felon, aggravated battery to a police officer, and one count of armed habitual criminal, all felonies.

CPD tactical officers assigned to the 11th District were conducting a traffic stop near Polk and Sacramento around 9:15 p.m. Monday, after police said they had observed a driver, later identified as Callion, committing multiple traffic violations. As the two officers approached Callion’s vehicle, police said he started to drive away, pinning an officer between the vehicle and squad car.

An exchange of gunfire ensued, and the other officer was shot in the hand, police said. Callion was also wounded, and he was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital in serious condition. Police also said they found two weapons in Callion’s vehicle.

Both officers were taken to an area hospital in fair condition. The officer who was shot in the hand has been released, according to news reports. The officer who was pinned suffered an injury to his leg.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot released a statement Tuesday, urging the Cook County State’s Attorney to impose the highest possible chargers, and for the court “to keep [this] violent dangerous individual off the street pre-trial.”

"Last night, two Chicago police officers were injured, including one shot, and the other seriously injured, while conducting a traffic stop in the 11th district. The Superintendent kept me updated, and I was very relieved to hear that none of their injuries were life threatening, and that a suspect was apprehended on scene,” Lightfoot said. “My family and I are sending them strength as they make their recoveries, and thank them along with all of the first responders who assisted last night for their courage and quick action during a chaotic and potentially deadly situation. This latest incident again underscores the dangers that our valiant police officers face every day to keep the rest of us safe.”

Callion is due in bond court Wednesday at the George Leighton Criminal Court Building.