Chicago police officer fatally shot in line-of-duty was Niles West alumnus

Hundreds of people gathered on May 8 at a Greek Orthodox church on the North Side to mourn a Chicago police officer who was killed in the line of duty, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

That officer, 38-year-old John Bartholomew, reportedly was fatally shot on April 25 by a man he had arrested and brought to Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital.

The ceremony Friday honored the Evanston-born man who was a 10-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department, a father of three, “devoted family man” and known for his “love for good food, his admiration for Batman, and his unmistakable, contagious laugh” according to his obituary.

Bartholomew was also a Niles West High School alumnus from the class of 2006, according to Takumi Iseda, Niles Township High Schools District 219 director of communications.

The Record continues to look for information regarding Bartholomew’s time and impact in the area. Please reach out to samuel@therecordns.org.

He is survived by his wife, Renee Bartholomew, and his three children, as well as his brother, James Bartholomew; sister, Paula Mueller; and many in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins and more, his obit says.

“John will be remembered as a devoted family man whose life was defined by love, loyalty, and service,” the obit reads. “He was always the first to step in and help others, known for his generosity and willingness to give without hesitation.”

Bartholomew was shot, the Sun-Times reported, around 10:50 a.m. April 25 when Alphanso Talley allegedly pulled a gun out from under his blanket and fired, striking both Bartholomew and his partner. Talley reportedly fled the hospital but was soon located and arrested.

Bartholomew was a nearly 11-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department.

“He was deeply dedicated to his work as a Chicago police officer, serving his community with honor, integrity, and an unwavering sense of duty,” the obit reads.

Chicago Police Department Supt. Larry Snelling said to Bartholomew’s children at the funeral. “Your father was a hero. His legacy will live on, that is why we’re here today.”

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