Will Co. Deputy Almost Murdered In Joliet Overnight, 'Dangerous' Suspect Arrested: Kelley

JOLIET, IL — The Will County Sheriff's Office and sheriff's candidate Dan Jungles posted announcements in regard to an overnight arrest on Joliet's east side that involved a Will County Sheriff's deputy facing gunfire. A 20-year-old Joliet man is now facing attempted murder charges, authorities said.

"Normally, I don’t comment on my political page about current matters involving the Will County Sheriff’s Office. There is a fine line we have to tow when running for political office," chief deputy sheriff Dan Jungles wrote. "Today is a bit different though, as a criminal’s actions could have turned deadly for one of our own. Thankfully, all of those involved are safe and did a wonderful job.

"Early this morning, one of our Will County deputies was shot at while trying to make a traffic stop in the Joliet Area. I have spoken to the deputy that was shot at and to the deputy that was second on the scene. Both are doing well and I want to recognize them for their determination, perseverance, and dedication to our community."

According to the Will County Sheriff's Office, in the early morning hours, a Will County Sheriff’s deputy came under fire during a traffic stop in Joliet Township.

At approximately 12:35 a.m., a Will County Sheriff’s deputy saw a black Infiniti sedan traveling above the speed limit and without a license plate near McDonough Street and Ottawa Street in Joliet Township. The deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the vehicle continued at a high rate of speed.

Near the intersection of Chicago Street and Doris Avenue, the driver exited the vehicle armed with an AR15 style pistol and fired two rounds at a deputy before fleeing on foot into a nearby field, the sheriff's agency noted. The deputy was not struck by gunfire.

With assistance from the Joliet Police Department and the Illinois State Police, a perimeter was quickly established. Following a brief search, 20-year-old Tyshawn T. Harris was taken into custody. A K9 search of the area led to the recovery of the weapon used. The vehicle driven by Harris was later confirmed to be stolen out of Joliet.

Will County Sheriff Mike Kelley announced, “We are thankful that our deputy is safe and that this dangerous individual is now in custody. I want to express my sincere appreciation to the Joliet Police Department and the Illinois State Police for their swift response and teamwork during this critical situation.”

Harris, who comes from the 1300 block of Pico Street, is now in the Will County Jail.

The Joliet 20-year-old has been initially charged with:

• Attempted Murder
• Aggravated Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (2 counts)
• Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm at a Peace Officer
• Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
• Aggravated Fleeing
• Driving on a Suspended License
• Unregistered/Expired Registration
• Disregard of a Traffic Control Device

Harris is due in court on Thursday, according to court records.