Two Chicago police officers were shot during a struggle with an armed suspect over the Fourth of July weekend as separate shootings across the city left three people dead and at least 16 others wounded, according to preliminary police figures.The Chicago Police Department said 34-year-old Malik Wrightsell was charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery of a peace officer, aggravated assault of a peace officer, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of a weapon by a repeat felony offender and several other offenses in connection with one shooting.The officers were conducting a traffic stop in Chicago's South Chicago neighborhood just before 5 p.m.Friday when Wrightsell fled on foot, police said.
Officers pursued him into the 7900 block of South Chappel Avenue, where he allegedly resisted as they attempted to take him into custody.NORTH CHARLESTON OFFICER ATTACKED BY CROWD IN VIRAL VIDEO AFTER GUNFIRE ERUPTS AT BLOCK PARTYChicago police identified Malik Wrightsell, 34, as the suspect charged in connection with the shooting of two officers during a Fourth of July weekend traffic stop.(CPD)During the struggle, police said Wrightsell pulled out a handgun and fired, striking one officer in the abdomen.
The officer's ballistic vest stopped the bullet before returning fire and striking Wrightsell.A second officer also was shot in the arm during the confrontation, with that officer's ballistic vest also stopping the bullet.Responding officers rendered aid to both officers and Wrightsell before all three were transported to area hospitals.
Police also recovered a firearm at the scene.Both officers were listed in good condition.Wrightsell was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in critical condition.NYPD DETECTIVE, CHILDREN SHOT IN SEPARATE BROOKLYN SHOOTINGS OVER HOLIDAY WEEKENDTwo Chicago police officers were shot during a struggle with an armed suspect following a traffic stop over the Fourth of July weekend, authorities said....