Evanston Police Dept. Press Conference 9/14/2010
UPDATE 4:10 P.M.
On 9-14-10, at approximately 3:53 a.m. the Evanston Police Department received notification of a loud explosion possible involving a blown transformer, in the general vicinity of 1000 Blk. Sherman Evanston, Illinois. Police responded into this area, but lacking an exact location and were not able to identify the source of the loud report.
At approximately 5:48 a.m. on this same date, Evanston Police were notified by a citizen of a body, presumed deceased in Fitzsimmons Park, located in the 800 Blk. of Lee St. Evanston. Evanston Police responded, confirming there was a male’s body on the ground in the park, deceased. At this time Officers also observed what was believed to be an operable explosive device. Evanston Police then notified the Cook County Bomb Squad, established a safety perimeter and notified area residents by going door to door.
The Cook County Bomb squad examined the explosive device and rendered it inoperable on scene in place. A secondary safety search was conducted by the Cook County Bomb squad and Evanston Police. Once the area was deemed secure Evidence Technicians from the Evanston Police Department and the North Regional Major Crimes Task Force began to process the scene for evidence. This examination continues at this time. An additional safety canvas of the area was conducted and this did include the near by Junior High of Nichols Middle School.
Continuing this investigation Evanston Police Investigators determined the identity of the deceased, whose name is being withheld pending a next of kin notification. Having determined the victim’s identity, Evanston Police Investigators responded to a location in the 1000 Blk. of Main St., this being what was believed to be the residence of the deceased. While at this location, Evanston Police determined that no immediate public safety risk existed. Evanston Police Investigators will be working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation as it pertains to the forensic examination of the decease’s computer, as that it might contain additional pertinent information.
Preliminary investigation now indicates that the deceased had in his possession two explosive devices, one of which detonated ending his own life. The second rendered inoperable by the Cook County Bomb Squad.
This investigation remains open and on going, pending additional investigative initiatives, further forensic analysis, all involving the Evanston Police Department, Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
All media questions should be directed to Commander Thomas Guenther at 847/866-5026.
For information on Nichols Middle School, visit School District 65's web site here>>>