EVANSTON, IL — A 28-year-old Evanston man has been charged after allegedly opening fire inside Evanston Hospital, critically injuring a security guard and biting another officer during a Thursday night incident that authorities say stemmed from a mental health evaluation gone awry.
Suspect Identified As Christian Haywood
According to Evanston police, the suspect — Christian Haywood — now faces a series of serious charges, including:
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Attempted first-degree murder (felony)
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Aggravated battery involving a firearm and injury to a public safety officer
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Aggravated battery to a public safety officer
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Two misdemeanor counts of unlawful possession of a weapon
Tense Scene Unfolded During Intake At Evanston Hospital
The confrontation began around 7:30 p.m. Thursday, when Evanston Police Department’s Crisis Response Team responded to a report of a man experiencing what was described as an “unknown mental health condition” on the 1700 block of Sherman Avenue.
Haywood was voluntarily taken to Evanston Hospital (2650 Ridge Ave.) for a mental health evaluation.
But as nurses assisted with his intake, police say Haywood became agitated. Security officers were summoned to help.
Gunfire Erupts, One Guard Shot Multiple Times
Just before 8 p.m., Haywood allegedly reached into his belongings, pulled out a gun, and fired 3–4 shots inside the emergency room area.
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A 33-year-old female security officer was struck three times in her left side.
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A second officer, 47, sustained injuries after Haywood bit her, according to investigators.
Weapon Possession Raises Questions
Haywood’s possession of a weapon inside a medical facility while under evaluation has sparked questions. He faces two misdemeanor charges for unlawful possession of a weapon, though it remains unclear how the firearm bypassed security protocols.
Officers Credit Crisis Response Coordination
The incident highlights the volatility of emergency mental health calls and the difficult circumstances both hospital staff and police face in ensuring safety while delivering care.
Police emphasized that the Crisis Response Team’s coordination helped contain the situation quickly and prevent additional injuries.
Status Of Injured Guards
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The security guard who was shot remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition.
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The bitten officer was treated and released, according to the hospital.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to review surveillance footage and conduct interviews with hospital personnel as the case proceeds. No updates have been given on Haywood’s mental health condition following the incident.
Call For Stricter Safety Protocols
Following the shooting, there is renewed concern about weapon screening and mental health care safety inside emergency rooms. Hospital administrators have not yet commented publicly.
Have you or someone you know experienced a crisis response situation at a hospital? What changes do you think are needed in emergency mental health care protocols? Share your thoughts in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
