Oak Park police are continuing their investigation into an alleged robbery attempt on Saturday, May 27, that turned into a gun battle leaving Damon Phillips, a 16-year-old from Chicago, dead.
The teenager allegedly approached a 24-year-old Chicago man in the parking lot of the U.S. Bank at 11 Madison St., near the corner of Madison and Austin Boulevard, and allegedly tried to rob him at gunpoint.
Oak Park Police Chief Anthony Ambrose said the victim, who had a valid conceal-carry license and was armed with a semi-automatic weapon, was leaving the bank around 11:15 a.m. when he was approached.
The interaction erupted into gunfire and the man shot Phillips, who then fled the scene. “The pair apparently exchanged gunfire before the alleged robber reportedly entered a waiting car and fled into Chicago,” according to a police statement.
Phillips was taken to Stroger Hospital by an unknown person, where he was pronounced dead.
An initial report noted that the two men exchanged gunfire, but Ambrose said investigators had not determined how many shots were fired from each weapon.
Ambrose said the investigation is now focused on whether others were involved in the robbery attempt and who transported Phillips to the hospital. “We know he obviously was with someone, so we’re trying to locate that person and if there was more than one individual (involved),” he said.
He said investigators also are trying to determine whether Phillips has any gang affiliation or criminal history.
An initial report from the village government noted that an off-duty Chicago police officer in the area at the time of the shooting detained and questioned the 24-year-old victim. That person, whose name has not been released, was also interviewed by Oak Park police.
Ambrose said police plan to release more information later in the week as it becomes available.
They’re urging anyone with information to call (708) 386-3800. Anyone who wants to place anonymous tips can call (708) 434-1636 or go online at www.oak-park.us/crimetip.
* This story was updated on May 30 to include comments from Oak Park Police Chief Anthony Ambrose.
CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com