Illinois Burglars Break Into U.S. Steel
On Wednesday, January 6, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m. officers were dispatched to the U.S. Steel building 938H in reference to a burglary in progress, according to East Chicago Police.
Upon arrival, officers were advised by security personnel that several men were observed breaking into the building. Officers on scene requested additional officers to assist with the search due to the size of the facility.
Officers then entered the facility and began searching for the suspects. During the search, officers located 1 suspect in the facility hiding. The suspect fled from officers and tossed a handgun when officers approached him. After a foot pursuit in the facility, officers apprehended the suspect, recovered the firearm, and secured him in a marked squad car.
Officers then re-entered the facility and continued searching for more suspects. A short time later, officers found a second suspect hiding in the facility. As officers approached the 2nd suspect, he also fled from officers. After a foot pursuit in the facility, the suspect was also apprehended. A firearm was also recovered from the 2nd suspect.
The 2nd suspect was also secured in a separate squad car, and officers continued to search the facility. Once the facility was cleared, officers transported the 2 suspects to the East Chicago Police Department Jail.
Suspect 1 was identified as 51-year-old Johnnie Owens of Markham, Illinois. Suspect 2 was identified as 32-year-old Shamar C. Fulwiley of Harvey, Illinois. East Chicago Criminal Investigation Division was assigned the case, and the following charges were filed against both suspects.
1 count of Burglary (Level 2 Felony)
1 count of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon (Level 4 Felony)
1 count of Resisting Law Enforcement
(Class A Misdemeanor)
Shamar Fulwiley also had an active warrant out of Calumet City and Springfield Illinois.
“Great job to the Uniform Patrol Division for their quick response and the apprehension of both suspects,” Chief Jose Rivera said. “This is a testament to their selflessness and the lengths they’ll go to protect our city.”
