Chicago Officer Dies 29 Years After Shooting

Sept. 7, 2017
Chicago Officer Bernie Domagala, who was seriously wounded after he was shot during a hostage situation on July 14, 1988, died from complications from his injuries on Sept. 5.

A Chicago police officer who was seriously wounded after he was shot while on duty 29 years ago died from complications from his injuries on Sept. 5.

Officer Bernie Domagala responded to a hostage situation at 7237 South Stony Island Avenue on July 14, 1988 before the shooting occured, according to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

He had taken a defensive position at the corner of the garage of the residence and looked around the corner at the house. That's when the suspect fired his weapon, hitting Domagala above his eye in the forehead.

The then 37-year-old was transported to Michael Reese Hospital where he underwent six hours of surgery to remove a bullet from his brain. Domagala suffered a traumatic brain injury that left him disabled and confined to a rehabilitation center for several years. He underwent numerous brain surgeries and continued to experience severe complications related to his wounds.

"He loved his job as he knew he would, and always said 'every day is something different, a new challenge,' " a statement from the foundation reads. "While on the job two challenges he enjoyed were being assigned to the Gang Crimes South Unit and becoming a member of the Hostage, Barricade, and Terrorist Unit (HBT)."

The Chicago native, who joined the force in 1981, is survived by his wife, Denise, and his sons Erik, Craig and Adam.

Funeral Arrangements

Visitation is set for Sunday, Sept. 10 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Blake Lamb, 4727 W 103rd St, Oak Lawn, Illinois.

Funeral services are set for Monday, Sept 11 at 10 am at Queen of Martyrs Church, 10233 S. Central Park Evergreen Park.

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