Chicago Hospital Shooting: Suspect Smuggled Gun in Body Folds, Officials Say
Chicago, IL – Alphanso Talley, 26, is facing murder and attempted murder charges after allegedly smuggling a gun into Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital and shooting two Chicago Police officers on April 25, 2026. One officer, 38-year-old John Bartholomew, a 10-year veteran of the force, was killed. Another officer, a 21-year veteran, was critically wounded but is reportedly stabilizing, according to police sources Block Club Chicago.
How the Gun Was Smuggled
Law enforcement sources revealed that Talley concealed the firearm within the folds of his skin to bypass security measures at the hospital. He had initially claimed to have swallowed drugs to be admitted for medical evaluation, a tactic he reportedly used during a 2025 arrest Police1. Despite being wanded by hospital security and searched by officers, Talley successfully brought the weapon into the hospital. He then retrieved the gun from under a blanket and opened fire on the officers while awaiting a CT scan Block Club Chicago.
Prior Arrest and Similar Claims
This isn’t the first time Talley has claimed to have ingested drugs to be hospitalized. During a 2025 arrest, he made a similar claim, leading to his transport to a hospital for treatment Police1.
Expert Commentary on Weapon Concealment
Gene Roy, retired Chicago Police Dept. Chief of Detectives, emphasized the skill of criminals in concealing weapons. “Remember, professional criminals, people who are carrying guns are professionals at what they do,” Roy told NBC 5. “They do not want to be caught. They are highly good at secreting weapons upon their body.”
Charges Filed
Talley has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery of a police officer, escape from a police officer, armed kidnapping, aggravated unlawful restraint, armed robbery, and possession of a gun by someone with a felony Block Club Chicago. He was arrested after allegedly committing an armed robbery at a Family Dollar store on W. Lawrence Ave. On April 27, 2026, where he reportedly struck an employee with a pistol and stole her keys and wallet Block Club Chicago.