Police Shoot Chainsaw-Wielding Man at Illinois Assisted Living Center

A use-of-force investigation is being conducted after police shot and killed a man who was holding a chainsaw and threatening people at an assisted living center in St. Charles, Illinois, on Dec. 1, 2024. According to the St. Charles Police Department, officers were called around 8:45 a.m. to check on the well-being of a shirtless man who was reportedly holding a chainsaw and trying to cut down a tree at the River Glen of St. Charles assisted living center.

Alleged Threats

Witnesses told investigators just before the police arrived, the man entered the lobby of the River Glen of St. Charles facility and started threatening the residents with the chainsaw. When the police got to the scene, they tried to talk to the man and calm him down, hoping to prevent anyone from getting hurt. However, the man continued to threaten both the residents and the officers with the chainsaw. Despite police efforts to de-escalate the situation, the man kept advancing and refused to stop.

Shot by Police

The police used a taser on the man in an attempt to stop him, but even after being stunned, he continued to threaten others with the chainsaw. Because of the danger he posed, an officer shot him. The man was quickly taken to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital, and died from his injuries a short time later. At the scene, some residents and officers affected by the situation were treated for minor injuries, but no one else was seriously hurt.

The man was later identified as Daniel Escalera.

Investigation and Facility Statement

Illinois State Police will take charge of the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, as required by state law and department rules. River Glen of St. Charles released the following statement, according to WRIC: "This morning, an unauthorized person briefly entered our community and was quickly stopped by responding officers. We are deeply grateful for the swift action of our team and law enforcement. We want to emphasize that our community is secure, and all residents and staff members are safe. The safety and security of our residents and staff remain our highest priority. We are working closely with law enforcement as they continue their investigation of this isolated incident."

Despite efforts to stop the man peacefully, the situation quickly became too dangerous, leading to the officer's decision to use deadly force. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are working to understand all the details.

References: Chainsaw-Wielding Man Killed by Police at Assisted Living Facility in Illinois | Chainsaw-Wielding Man Shot by Officers at Suburban Assisted Living Center | Chainsaw-wielding man who attacked St. Charles senior home wasn't locked up despite criminal history