(UPDATED 2:01 P.M.)
WASHINGTON, Ill. – One person is in custody after an incident early Sunday morning in Washington that allegedly involved a police shootout and a house explosion.
Washington Police says officers were called to the 900-block of Mallard Way on reports of multiple gunshots fired, just after 4:30 A.M.
Police say one person inside the multi-unit building allegedly fired their weapon at officers, with a Washington Police officer returning fire. An officer from an assisting agency suffered a minor injury during the gunfire exchange. The officer was examined by medical staff at the scene and remained on duty.
Nearby residences were evacuated by police.
Police say an explosion then occurred at the residence where the suspect was reportedly firing from, followed by a fire.
The suspect was eventually taken into custody, and then transferred to OSF Medical Center in Peoria, where their condition is not known at this time.
Washington Fire and mutual aid from surrounding departments helped put the fire out. Washington Police says all residences of the multi-unit building are displaced, with the Red Cross called in to assist them.
Due to Washington Police policy and state law, Illinois State Police is handling the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, as well as investigate the actions of the suspect. Washington Fire will investigate the cause of the fire.
Washington Police says the Peoria Police Department’s Explosion Ordinance Disposal team is assisting out of an abundance of caution, but notes that it is not a confirmation that any explosive device was used.
Washington Police Chief Jeff Stevens tells WMBD Radio that the investigation will “take time to work through,” noting that it is a “large crime scene with some complexity.” He adds that he is “incredibly proud” of the third shift officers at the scene for their efforts, and the officers who came to help “without hesitation.”
Washington Mayor Lilija Stevens says it’s a “shocking situation for our community.” Stevens also praised the Washington Police and Fire Departments for their efforts.
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WASHINGTON, Ill. – Authorities are investigating after an explosion was reported early Sunday morning on the 900 block of Mallard Way in Washington during police activity in the area.
Washington Police Chief Jeff Stevens told WMBD Radio there have been no reported fatalities at this time.
Fire crews remained on scene for several hours following the incident.
Few details have been officially released about what led up to the explosion or the police response.
Stevens also said Illinois State Police is assisting with the investigation.
Chief Stevens described the investigation as ongoing and said it could continue for an extended period of time.
Additional information is expected to be released as the investigation continues.
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