Romeoville bank hostage crisis: Video shows fatal 2022 encounter
ROMEOVILLE, Ill. - The Illinois State Police (ISP) have released video footage showing the fatal encounter between Will County SWAT officers and a Crest Hill man who held hostages at a Romeoville bank.
The video sheds light on the events leading to 65-year-old George Walker's death on May 10, 2022, during a tense standoff at the Fifth Third Bank on South Weber Road.
What we know:
The incident began when Walker entered the bank armed, prompting hostages to contact police around 3:40 p.m. Responding officers negotiated with Walker, who released the hostages after 30 minutes but remained barricaded inside.
According to ISP, Walker was shot by a SWAT officer as he prepared to exit the bank. Paramedics on the scene provided aid, but Walker later died at a hospital. The motive for the incident remains unclear.
In July 2022, the ISP completed its investigation and submitted the case to the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office. A special grand jury was convened to review the case and ultimately returned a "No Bill," declining to bring charges against the officer involved.
Local perspective:
Residents in the area expressed shock at the situation when it happened.
"I’ve been here 15 years now, and I’ve never seen anything like this before," said Lisa Coleman.
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE (Warning: Viewer discretion is advised.)
What's next:
With the grand jury’s decision not to press charges and the release of the video, the case is now closed.
Additional court documents on the case can be found HERE.
The Source: The information in this article was provided by the Illinois State Police.