Crime & Law
Murder Charges Filed in Fatal Shooting of CPD Officer John Bartholomew
Police officers work the scene outside Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital in Lincoln Square, on Saturday, April 25, 2026. (Anthony Vazquez / Chicago Sun-Times via AP)
Murder charges have been filed against the man accused of killing Chicago police Officer John Bartholomew and critically wounding his partner in a shooting Saturday at Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital.
The Chicago Police Department on Monday announced the charges against 26-year-old Alphanso Talley. He now faces 20 felony charges including first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated battery, robbery and kidnapping.
“Though this does not bring solace to this tragedy, it does bring the first step in accountability,” Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said in a statement Monday. “I want to thank every officer who quickly responded to take this offender into custody and every detective who worked tirelessly during this investigation to secure charges.”
Bartholomew was fatally shot Saturday, allegedly by Talley, who was receiving treatment at the North Side hospital while in police custody. His partner was also shot and, according to Snelling, is still “fighting for his life” as of Monday.
The officers had transported the suspect, who had been arrested for suspicion of robbery, to the hospital for observation. The suspect fled from the hospital after the shooting. Police have not said how he was able to get a gun.
A surveillance photo obtained by the Sun-Times appeared to show him running naked, with electrodes on his chest.
The hospital said in a Facebook posting Saturday that an individual in custody of law enforcement was brought to the emergency department for treatment and was “wanded upon arrival,” following the protocols. He was escorted by law enforcement at all times, the hospital said.
It said that the man later fired shots at the law enforcement officers and exited the hospital building.
Snelling said police investigating the shooting had recovered three weapons.
The other victim is a 57-year-old officer with 21 years of service, Snelling said.
“This shooting was a stark and heartbreaking reminder of the dangers our officers face all too often on this job,” Snelling said. "I encourage every Chicagoan to join us in supporting our officers and their families in these difficult days ahead."
Talley had a hearing scheduled Monday, which has been continued to Thursday, according to county prosecutors.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
