Potentially volatile situation in Lincoln Friday night ends peacefully

 

[March 26, 2019] 

LINCOLN 

On Friday, March 22, 2019, at 10:06 PM, Lincoln Police Department was requested to a residence in the 500blk of North Hamilton Street in reference to a domestic battery investigation. Officers learned the female victim and children had fled the residence and the male suspect inside the residence was reported to be intoxicated and armed with a firearm.

As Lincoln Police Officers and Logan County Sheriff Deputies arrived on scene, there was a single gunshot from inside the residence. The suspect then barricaded himself inside the residence. Officers were able to secure the perimeter of the house and evacuate nearby residences. Illinois State Police was requested for negotiations and tactical units, before they arrived however at approximately 11:47 PM the suspect exited the residence armed with a knife. Officers on scene exhibited great control and were able to subdue the suspect with help of a Taser. As officers were clearing the residence they found a gas line was damaged in the basement and was filling the house with gas. Lincoln Fire Department immediately shut down gas service to the residence and were able to safely vent the residence. The only injury sustained during this incident was to the female victim as a result of the domestic battery of which she was treated and released.

The male suspect was identified as Elijah A Phillips, previously from Goodfield, IL. After a mental health evaluation, Phillips was arrested for Aggravated Assault (Class 4), Reckless Discharge of a Firearm (Class 4), and Domestic Battery (Class A). This investigation is still open and in progress by the Lincoln Police Department. The arrest charges are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. All reports will be forwarded to the Logan County State’s Attorney for review.

Participating agencies: Lincoln Police Department, Logan County Sheriff’s Office, Logan County Paramedics, and Lincoln Fire Department.

AUTHORITY: Paul Adams, Chief of Police