A 16-year-old boy has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder in the tragic shooting death of retired Chicago police officer Larry Neuman. The incident occurred on June 20 outside Neuman's home, where he was paying someone to cut his grass.
According to Chicago Police Chief of Detectives Antoinette Ursitti, Neuman heroically pushed the worker out of harm's way upon seeing two armed individuals approaching. Neuman then retrieved his own firearm, but unfortunately, he was wounded in the exchange of gunfire that followed.
Despite being taken to the hospital, Neuman succumbed to his injuries. The teen suspect turned himself in after surveillance footage of the incident was released, while a second suspect is still being sought by authorities.
Larry Neuman, who joined the Chicago Police Department in the early 1980s and later served in the Bomb and Arson Section before retiring in 2010, was remembered as a dedicated officer and community figure. Post-retirement, he worked as a minister and for the Transportation Security Administration at Midway and O'Hare International Airports.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Neuman's commitment to creating a safer environment for young people in the neighborhood. Alderman Jason Ervin of the 28th Ward also mourned the loss, describing Neuman as 'an all-out good person' and emphasizing the impact of his passing on the city.
The Chicago Police Bomb Squad, where Neuman served as the longest-tenured explosives technician, paid tribute to his memory, calling him a 'wonderful human being' and expressing condolences to his family during this difficult time.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers and the impact of senseless acts of violence on communities. The investigation into the shooting death of Larry Neuman continues as authorities seek justice for the fallen officer.
