Shooting in Chicago claims three lives

A police officer, a doctor, and a pharmaceutical assistant were killed after a Monday afternoon shooting at Chicago's Mercy Hospital, Mayor Rahm Emanuel said.

The shooting was a domestic incident, Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie T. Johnson said. The gunman's first victim was a woman he had previously had a relationship with, Johnson said.

The gunman also died, though it is unclear whether he died from police gunfire or a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Johnson said.

The deceased officer was identified by Chicago police as Samuel Jimenez, a father of three. He joined the force in February 2017 and recently completed probationary training, becoming a full-fledged officer, Johnson said. A procession was held for him Monday night.

"What I would ask is that you keep all the victims of today's horrific incident in your thoughts and prayers," Johnson said.

Around 3:30 p.m., the gunman approached one of the female victims - a hospital employee - in the parking lot, Johnson said. As they started arguing, a friend of the woman attempted to intervene.

The gunman lifted his shirt and revealed a handgun, prompting the friend to flee. Two 911 calls in rapid succession reported an assault and then gunshots, Johnson said.

When officers responded to the scene, the gunman opened fire on them before they could exit their vehicle. Officers followed him into the hospital and exchanged gunfire with him, Johnson said.

During the shootout, Officer Jimenez was fatally wounded along with a hospital employee as she exited an elevator.

The officers "saved a lot of lives because we just don't know how much damage he was prepared to do," Johnson said of the gunman.

Police secured the hospital and patients are safe, the hospital said.

The incident drew large numbers of law enforcement and emergency responders. Vehicles with flashing lights cordoned off the blocks around the busy medical center.

At least 15 medic units were sent to Mercy Hospital, Chicago Fire Department Public Information Officer Larry Merritt said.