Investigation: Highland Park Hospital Shooting "Justified"

by Erin Gallagher

The Lake County State’s Attorney determined the officer-involved shooting at Highland Park Hospital was justified, according to a statement released by the City of Highland Park Tuesday.

“We have determined that this was a justified shooting and that the officers’ actions were reasonable and appropriate,” Lake County State’s Attorney Michael G. Nerheim said in the statement.

The Lake County Major Crimes Task force, which conducted the investigation, is comprised of members from various law enforcement agencies, including the sheriff’s office, state’s attorney office, coroner’s officer and others.

The investigation is the result of Christopher M. Anderson allegedly drawing a handgun on the hospital emergency room staff on Nov. 3.

“Police officers repeatedly demanded that Mr. Anderson drop his weapon,” the statement said. ”Emergency room cameras show hospital staff fleeing the treatment room.

“Witnesses reported hearing the officers making the verbal commands to drop the weapon for a period of time lasting more than 45 seconds,” it said. ”When Mr. Anderson refused to drop the weapon, officers were left with no alternative but to stop him.”

Officers fired nine rounds in approximately 1.7 seconds, striking Anderson several times, the statement said.

The handgun used by Anderson had been reported stolen in Waukegan.

“(The officers’) actions were justified and necessary to protect the safety of the hospital staff and public,” said Police Chief Paul Shafer.