Following multiple gun incidents, Winnetka leaders reach out to community

Winnetka officials addressed residents on July 26 in the wake of recent firearm-related crime in and around the community and what measures are being taken to respond.

According to messages from Village President Chris Rintz and Police Chief Brian O’Connell, the Winnetka Police Department is working with the Village Council and staff on a plan, with the goal of improving security across the community.

The public response comes on the heels of an armed robbery attempt July 19 in a residential Winnetka neighborhood.

It is one of several firearm incidents in the North Shore over the past few months, including a shootout on Sheridan Road and an armed robbery of a Wilmette jogger, for which two teens have been arrested. Both incidents occurred in May.

Rintz called the instances “unsettling” and detailed an evening in which police woke him up while investigating break-ins on his block.

“Your Village takes these events seriously: Village Council, Village staff and the Winnetka Police Department are collaborating on targeted, results-oriented actions to combat this concerning trend,” Rintz said in his message. “We have highest confidence in our police department and our regional law enforcement community: These are highly trained individuals who are committed to serving and protecting us.”

In his message, O’Connell said the department has strategically increased patrols during “timeframes when specific crimes have typically occurred. He also committed to future initiatives.

Both O’Connell and Rintz also encouraged the cooperation of the community, asking residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their car doors and dial 911 when observing “any scenario that’s improper,” Rintz said.

“As a community, we can work together toward crime prevention and deterrence, and I ask for your support as we map a way forward,” Rintz said.

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