CHICAGO, IL – A 16-year-old boy has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder in the death of retired Chicago police officer Larry Neuman, authorities announced this week. The incident occurred on June 20 when Neuman, 64, was fatally shot outside his home while paying a worker who was cutting his grass, according to police.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling confirmed the charges on Monday, noting that a second suspect is still at large. Neuman, who had dedicated decades of his life to public service, confronted two armed individuals outside his residence. In a heroic act, he pushed the worker out of harm’s way before retrieving his firearm from his waistband.
The confrontation quickly escalated as both suspects opened fire, wounding Neuman. Despite his injuries, Neuman managed to return fire as the assailants fled on foot. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The teen suspect later surrendered to authorities after surveillance footage of the incident was released to the public.
Superintendent Snelling praised Neuman’s lifelong commitment to his community, stating, “Larry worked tirelessly to create a safe environment for young people and to bring peace to his neighborhood. His life was tragically cut short by the very individuals he aimed to help.”
Neuman’s career with the Chicago Police Department began in the early 1980s, and he joined the Bomb and Arson Section in 1988. He retired in 2010 as the longest-serving explosives technician with the Chicago Police Bomb Squad. After his retirement, Neuman became a minister and worked for the Transportation Security Administration at both Midway and O’Hare International Airports.
The Chicago Police Bomb Squad expressed their sorrow on social media, describing Neuman as a “wealth of knowledge” and “a joy to be around.” Alderman Jason Ervin of the 28th Ward also paid tribute, calling Neuman “an all-out good person” and lamenting the loss as a significant blow to the city.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the second suspect to come forward. The community remains in mourning over the senseless act of violence that claimed the life of a dedicated public servant.