University Employee Shot in Chicago
Chicago is home to many prestigious post-secondary institutions, including the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, the University of Illinois, and the Illinois Institute of Technology. Employees of these organizations play an important role not only in guiding young people toward successful careers, but also in the economy of Chicago. When an employee of one of these institutions dies or becomes injured, the academic community takes notice. These incidents are particularly worrying when they involve violence. It is important to remember that like all employees, university workers can file workers’ compensation claims in Chicago.
Rush University Employee “Critically Injured” After Being Shot
In January of 2026, NBC Chicago reported that an employee of Rush University Medical Center had been shot and critically injured outside the facility. Police say the female 23-year-old was sitting in her car outside the hospital when a dark-colored sedan pulled up alongside her. A person inside the sedan then brandished a firearm and fired shots into her vehicle.
The victim suffered several gunshot wounds and was in critical condition. She was then rushed to a nearby hospital (assumedly the Rush University Medical Center) where she remained in critical condition. Rush later clarified that the attack had occurred outside the Armour Academic Center.
The sedan seems to have escaped the scene, and police have not taken anyone into custody as of this writing.
Can University Employees File Workers’ Compensation Claims in Chicago?
Yes, university employees in Chicago can file workers’ compensation claims. Assuming that they are legally classified as “employees” and not “independent contractors,” workers can recover compensation for lost wages and medical expenses after injuries on campus.
In addition, many universities offer additional disability plans or wage indemnity benefits for their injured workers. These benefits can provide even higher levels of compensation for injured workers.
Note that after a violent incident like the aforementioned shooting, it may be impossible to recover compensation in any other way than workers’ compensation and related benefits. Since the shooter fled the scene, they may never be found by police. In situations like this, there are no negligent parties left to hold liable for injuries.
Violent incidents are still covered by workers’ compensation. However, these injuries must occur during work hours, or they must be connected to work-related duties. Note that if you were intoxicated at the time of the attack, your workers’ comp claim may be denied. You might also face a denial if you were engaging in “horseplay” at the time of the incident. Contact an experienced lawyer if you’re facing these issues.
Can a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me?
If you suffered an injury while working at a university, you might want to contact an experienced Chicago workers’ comp lawyer. These legal professionals can guide you toward financial support, rehabilitation, and closure. Violent incidents like the one that recently occurred show that even academic communities cannot shelter decent workers from violent crime. Contact Connolly Injury Law today to learn more about your next potential steps.
Source:
nbcchicago.com/news/local/rush-university-employee-shot-critically-injured-while-sitting-in-car-in-front-of-hospital/3874946/
