CARLINVILLE, Ill. — The Carlinville Police Department said at about 5:45 p.m. Sunday, its license plate reading system showed a potentially armed and dangerous man who was driving into the town of 5,600 people.
Officers pulled him over in the parking lot of the Carlinville Area Hospital located at 20733 North Broad Street.
They said the man pointed a gun at police and that's when an officer shot the suspect.
He was taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. The officer was not hurt.
Carlinville residents 5 On Your Side talked to Monday in the area and did not want to go on camera, but said something like this is rare.
Meanwhile, the hospital went on lockdown during the incident. No staff members or patients were involved.
In a statement released Monday, the hospital stated in part:
"Most importantly, we are thankful that our staff and patients remained safe during this incident. The hospital team performed very well through the challenging circumstances both during and after the incident. We are grateful to the officer and Carlinville Police Department for their ongoing efforts to provide protection to the Carlinville Area Hospital & Clinic team and its patients."
The department has asked the Illinois State Police to help with the investigation. They say the case is open and ongoing.
They added that they will not release the suspect's name or current condition to "maintain the integrity of the investigation."
This is a developing story. 5 On Your Side will update this story as soon as information becomes available.
Resources for crime victims:
If you have been a victim of a crime or know someone who has been, 5 On Your Side has compiled a list of resources.
The Crime Victim Center of St. Louis has multiple programs to support victims of crime. Crime Victim Center’s programs range from direct services to crime victims as well as “creating awareness and change within the systems they encounter.”
Life Outside of Violence "helps those harmed by stabbing, gunshot or assault receive the treatment, support and resources they need to find alternatives to end the cycle of violence."
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has the Neighborhood Healing Network, which serves people who have experienced crime, violence or been the victim of an incident that caused trauma.
Cure Violence is an international organization that is present in a handful of St. Louis neighborhoods. Violence interrupters are trained to de-escalate violent situations within their own communities.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or thinking of suicide, help is available 24 hours a day through several hotlines. Use the numbers below or click the links for more information.