First-Degree Murder Conviction in 2021 Police Shooting Incident
A man was convicted on Thursday of first-degree murder and attempted murder for the 2021 fatal shooting of one police officer and the critical wounding of another during a routine investigation at an Illinois hotel. Darius Sullivan, the convicted man, is awaiting a sentencing date after a jury found him guilty of the charges.
Shooting Incident at Illinois Hotel
The tragic incident took place when Bradley Police Sergeant Marlene Rittmanic, 49, and Officer Tyler Bailey, 27, responded to a call regarding barking dogs in an unattended vehicle parked at a hotel. The officers knocked on the door of the room where the vehicle’s suspected owner was staying. After identifying the room, the officers were met with gunfire.
Sgt. Rittmanic, a 21-year veteran of the police force, died from her injuries, while Officer Bailey sustained critical wounds. The gunman, Sullivan, used his personal firearm to shoot both officers. According to court testimonies, Sullivan shot Bailey in the head and pursued Sgt. Rittmanic down a hallway as she tried to flee.
Prosecutor Details Harrowing Final Moments
During a 2022 court hearing, prosecutors provided harrowing details of the shooting. Sgt. Rittmanic reportedly pleaded for her life as Sullivan shot her. His girlfriend, who was present during the attack, assisted in disarming Rittmanic during the struggle. The prosecutor emphasized the callousness of the crime, describing how Sullivan chased the officer after she attempted to escape.
Sullivan Arrested After Multi-State Manhunt
Sullivan was apprehended two days after the shooting at a residence in Indiana. He had initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. His girlfriend, who faces similar charges of murder and attempted murder, is awaiting a separate trial.
Awaiting Sentencing
While Sullivan’s conviction brings some closure to the tragic case, a sentencing date has yet to be scheduled. The community continues to mourn the loss of Sgt. Rittmanic, whose decades of service were cut short by the violent incident.
Officer Bailey, who survived the attack, continues to recover, but the long-term effects of his injuries remain unclear.
