CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — A central Illinois police officer died Wednesday after being shot by a suspect in a domestic disturbance who also was killed in an exchange of gunfire that left a second officer wounded, a police chief said.
Champaign police Officer Chris Oberheim, 44, “passed away due to injuries sustained while on-duty,” Police Chief Anthony Cobb said in a statement.
He said Oberheim, who had joined the department in September 2008, was struck by gunfire early Wednesday while responding to a domestic disturbance. “His only intention was to serve, protect and help provide care before he was senselessly fired upon and killed.”
“A true professional and devoted public servant, Officer Oberheim is remembered for his heroism, bravery, and the oath of office he honorably upheld in his commitment to duty,” Cobb said in his statement.
The suspect who opened fire on Oberheim and another officer was killed in the exchange of gunfire about 3:20 a.m. at an apartment complex on Champaign’s north side. The second officer was wounded and reported in stable condition.
