Commander Paul R. Bauer was 53 and a 31-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department when he was shot and killed on February 13, 2018, while on duty. The shooting happened in the James R. Thompson Center in the Loop after Bauer responded to a radio call about a suspicious person, pursued 44-year-old Shomari Legghette into the Thompson Center Plaza, and struggled near the top of the Food Court’s East emergency exit stairs. During the struggle Legghette produced a semi-automatic handgun and fired seven rounds, striking Bauer six times. Bauer’s service weapon remained holstered; his radio and handcuffs were found beside his body. Responding officers apprehended Legghette at the top of the staircase.

Legghette was charged with first-degree murder and related offenses. The case went to trial, and in March 2020 he was found guilty on all counts and later sentenced to life without parole. Bauer was remembered by colleagues and family as a dedicated officer, husband, and father, and his death prompted widespread condolences and memorials. If anyone witnessed the pursuit inside the Thompson Center or has information that was not previously shared with investigators, please come forward.