Romeoville bank hostage crisis: Video shows fatal 2022 encounter

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – The Illinois State Police (ISP) have released video footage showing the fatal encounter between Will County SWAT officers and a Crest Hill man who held hostages at a Romeoville bank.

The video sheds light on the events leading to 65-year-old George Walker’s death on May 10, 2022, during a tense standoff at the Fifth Third Bank on South Weber Road.

What we know:

The incident began when Walker entered the bank armed, prompting hostages to contact police around 3:40 p.m. Responding officers negotiated with Walker, who released the hostages after 30 minutes but remained barricaded inside.

According to ISP, Walker was shot by a SWAT officer as he prepared to exit the bank. Paramedics on the scene provided aid, but Walker later died at a hospital. The motive for the incident remains unclear.

In July 2022, the ISP completed its investigation and submitted the case to the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office. A special grand jury was convened to review the case and ultimately returned a “No Bill,” declining to bring charges against the officer involved.

Local perspective:

Residents in the area expressed shock at the situation when it happened.

“I’ve been here 15 years now, and I’ve never seen anything like this before,” said Lisa Coleman.