2 brothers charged in fatal shooting of Chicago police officer

Illinois authorities have charged two brothers in the fatal shooting of a Chicago police officer, according to an announcement from the state’s attorney’s office. 

The Cook County State’s Attorney Office said on Monday that Emonte and Eric Morgan have been charged for their alleged roles in the death of Chicago Police Officer Ella French. 

Emonte Morgan, 21, was charged with first degree murder of a peace officer, two counts of attempt first degree murder of a peace officer, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon.  

Eric Morgan, 22, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful use of a weapon by a felon, and obstruction of justice. 

Twenty-nine-year-old Jamal Danzy has also been charged by the U.S. attorney’s office in connection with the events. 

Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown said that the fatal incident began during a traffic stop when the two men began firing shots toward the two police officers. The officers returned fire as well, according to USA Today.

French, 29, died from injuries sustained during the gunfire, and her partner, who has not been named, still remains in a medical facility in critical condition. The Chicago Police Department asked the public to pray for the officer so he can make a full recovery. 

Please also pray for her wounded partner, who is in the hospital fighting for his life. We’re asking for everyone to lift up this officer and his family as we pray for his recovery.

— Chicago Police (@Chicago_Police) August 8, 2021

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot (D) told the media that she spent time with French’s family, describing the slain officer as a “young” but “incredibly enthusiastic” officer, according to the news outlet. 

“Our hearts ache for the loss of life,” Lightfoot said. “This is a very tragic and sad day for our city.”

French is the first female Chicago police officer to be gunned down on duty since Irma Ruiz in 1988, and the latest officer to be gunned down since Samuel Jimenez in 2018, USA Today reported. 

Both brothers will appear in a bail hearing on Tuesday, USA Today noted.