Police: Eugene McLaurin facing federal charges in Chicago shooting

OAN Newsroom
UPDATED 2:11 PM PT – Thursday, July 8, 2021

Eugene McLaurin, 28, is facing federal charges in connection with the shooting of a Chicago police officer and two Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents. McLaurin told authorities he opened fire on the unmarked car because he was under the impression that they were “opps” or rival street gang members.

Eugene McLaurin (Chicago Police Department)

In a press conference held on Wednesday, Chicago Police Department Superintendent David Brown said the three officials were working undercover when a suspect opened fire at their vehicle in the Morgan Park neighborhood, injuring them all.

According to Brown, the three were treated for their non-life-threatening injuries at a local hospital where they were later released. Due to the circumstances of the case surrounding the undercover officials, Brown was not able to give out any additional information as it could jeopardize the investigation.

Gun violence affects all of us. Today, a Chicago Police officer became the 36th CPD officer shot at or shot this year. Two @ATF_Chicago Agents were also injured. We must not forget that these officers risk EVERYTHING, life and limb, to protect the people of this city. pic.twitter.com/b6M0MZZAC8

— Chicago Police Superintendent David O. Brown (@ChiefDavidBrown) July 7, 2021

Meanwhile, sources close to the investigation said both ATF agents and the Chicago police officer were targeted before the ambush. Brown stressed this is the 36th officer from the Chicago Police Department that has been shot or shot at this year.

McLaurin is charged with one count of using a dangerous and deadly weapon to assault an ATF agent and potentially faces 20 years in prison.

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