CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A Champaign police officer and a suspect both died following an exchange of gunfire early Wednesday morning, and a second officer was wounded.
According to Champaign officials, police responded to a domestic disturbance at an apartment complex in the 2400 block of North Neil Street around 3:24 a.m. Wednesday morning.
Upon arrival, two Champaign police officers exited their vehicles, and the preliminary investigation indicates they encountered an armed individual and gunfire was exchanged.
Both officers and the armed suspect were hit. The suspect was fatally shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
The two Champaign police officers were transported to a local hospital, where 44-year-old Chris Oberheim died.
The second officer remains hospitalized in stable condition.
"It is with great sadness and a heavy heart I announce Champaign Police Officer Chris Oberheim, 44, badge number 703, passed away due to injuries sustained while on-duty. Officer Oberheim was struck by gunfire while responding to a domestic disturbance. His only intention was to serve, protect and help provide care before he was senselessly fired upon and killed," said Police Chief Anthony Cobb, in a statement.
Officer Oberheim joined the Champaign Police Department in September 2008 after beginning his career with the Decatur Police Department. He had four daughters.
"A true professional and devoted public servant, Officer Oberheim is remembered for his heroism, bravery, and the oath of office he honorably upheld in his commitment to duty," Cobb said.
Champaign Police Chief Anthony Cobb just last week said he feared something like this could happen, because of escalating gun violence.
"Why are they shooting? We have to address that," Cobb said last week. "This gun violence has to be a priority. We have to deal with it."
He said incidents involving gunfire are up more than 100-percent over last year.
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