POLO – Authorities responded to a reported shooting late Saturday night in the 500 block of W. Mason Street in Polo, where a 19-year-old male suspect allegedly shot one person and held others hostage inside a home. The hostages escaped before law enforcement arrived. Two people, including the suspect, were found deceased at the scene.
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle in a statement Sunday morning added that it was determined that the 19-year-old male suspect had shot an occupant with a handgun.
The Ogle County Emergency Response Team and Northwest Illinois Critical Incident Response Team were activated due to the seriousness of the situation. The Polo Police Department was assisted by multiple agencies, and the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation. Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The City of Polo posted on Facebook their deep gratitude for the bravery and professionalism of first responders, especially the Polo Police Department, while offering heartfelt condolences to the victims and reaffirming the importance of unity and support during this difficult time.