FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 13, 2018

Contact: ISP Public Information Office
pio@isp.state.il.us

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOOTING IN ROBBINS
CHICAGO - Illinois State Police (ISP) officials are investigating a shooting, which occurred
in Robbins, Illinois, on November 11, 2018, at approximately 4:02 a.m., involving a
Midlothian Police Department Officer. The shooting occurred at 2911 S. Claire Boulevard
in Robbins, Illinois, at Manny’s Blue Room Lounge.
A preliminary investigation has revealed an armed suspect entered the lounge and
opened fire striking multiple people inside the establishment. Officers from the Robbins
and Midlothian Police Departments, along with other suburban police officers, responded
to the call of shots fired and fight in progress. Preliminary reports indicate officers arrived
on scene as the incident was ongoing.
Upon his arrival, a Midlothian Police Officer encountered a subject in plain black clothing
with no markings readily identifying him as a Security Guard, armed with a gun in the west
parking lot. According to witness statements, the Midlothian Officer gave the armed
subject multiple verbal commands to drop the gun and get on the ground before ultimately
discharging his weapon and striking the subject. The investigation revealed the armed
subject was Jemel Roberson, age 26, of Chicago, who was working as a Security Guard
at the lounge and according to witness statements; was attempting to subdue a subject
suspected to be involved in the initial shooting. Reports indicate officers readily provided
medical assistance to multiple gunshot victims, including Roberson. Roberson was
transported to a local area hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
The ISP Public Integrity Task Force was requested by the Midlothian Police Department
to conduct an independent investigation into the involved officer’s use of force. The Cook
County Sheriff’s Police Department is investigating the initial shooting that took place.
Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has any knowledge of the shooting is asked to
contact the ISP at (847) 294-4400. Callers can remain anonymous. Witnesses, or anyone
with knowledge of the incident can also call the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department
at (847) 635-1188. The PITF case is an open and ongoing investigation and no additional
information is being released at this time.
The public is reminded that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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