Holly MatkinChampaign, IL – Champaign Police Department (CPD) Officer Chris Oberheim died in the line of duty Wednesday morning after being shot while responding to a domestic disturbance.
The incident occurred shortly before 3:30 a.m. on May 19 after police received a report of a domestic disturbance in the 2400-block of North Neil Street, WAND reported.
CPD officers responded to the scene and exchanged gunfire with a suspect shortly thereafter, police said.
The gunman was fatally shot and died at the scene, WAND reported.
Officer Oberheim, 44, and a second CPD officer were struck by gunfire during the gun battle.
They were rushed to a local hospital, where Officer Oberheim succumbed to his wounds.
The second officer was listed in stable condition early Wednesday morning, WAND reported.
CPD Chief Anthony Cobb issued a statement confirming that Officer Oberheim died as a result of the line-of-duty attack.
“Officer Oberheim was struck by gunfire while responding to a domestic disturbance,” Chief Cobb said. “His only intention was to serve, protect and help provide care before he was senselessly fired upon and killed.”
Officer Oberheim served with the Decatur Police Department prior to joining the CPD in September of 2008, the chief said in the statement.
“A true professional and devoted public servant, Officer Oberheim is remembered for his heroism, bravery, and the oath of office he honorably upheld in his commitment to duty,” Chief Cobb wrote.
Officer Oberheim leaves behind his four children, Monticello School District Superintendent Vic Zimmerman said in a statement to WCIA.
Chief Cobb asked for the community give Officer Oberheim’s family and the CPD and their families privacy during this difficult time.
“The Champaign Police Department, and the entire City of Champaign organization, expresses its deepest condolences to Officer Oberheim’s family, friends and loved ones,” he wrote. “I also want to express my care and support for all members of the Champaign Police Department who are mourning the passing of their friend and colleague.”
Champaign Police Officer Chris Oberheim was just 44 years old when he was fatally shot by a suspect this morning. pic.twitter.com/pxHaKcmlNu
— FOX Illinois (@foxillinois) May 19, 2021
#BREAKING We’re told one of the officer from this morning’s shooting has died. Officer Chris Oberheim and another Champaign officer responded to a domestic dispute that ended in an exchange of gunfire. https://t.co/wefF5tEPbf
— Caryn Eisert (@CarynEisert) May 19, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Champaign Police Department Officer Chris Oberheim, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Officer Chris Oberheim, your life mattered.
