More Details on Yesterday's Shooting in River North

By Chuck Sudo in News on Feb 24, 2011 3:05PM

We led off yesterday's "Extra Extra" post with a news item about a shooting in River North that left two cops injured and the suspected gunman dead. Today, more information reveals the details of the shooting.

Police arrested 56-year-old Reginald Hardaman for panhandling yesterday near the intersection of Chicago Avenue and Wells Street. After Hardaman was handcuffed and placed in the police car, he pulled out a gun and fired through the front seat. The police got our of the car and returned fire as it rolled down the street. A 37-year-old policeman was in good condition after being treated for a gunshot in the back. His 60-year-old partner was treated for cuts on his hands.

Hardaman's brother Sidney told the Tribune that he was mentally ill and feared the worst for him. Witnesses to the shooting initially believed that they were witnessing a drive-by and not cops returning fire.