A Chicago man is accused of shooting an off-duty Merrionette Park officer

CHICAGO — A Chicago man is accused of shooting an off-duty Merionette Park police officer.

Dareon Thompson, 24, of Chicago, is charged with attempted murder, aggravated battery and unlawful use of a weapon. An off-duty commuter officer was driving to work around 5 p.m. Saturday when a car in front of her, in which Thompson was sitting, stopped her from passing, police said.

When the officer tried to pull over, police say Thompson swerved to stop her.

SEE ALSO: Off-duty Merrionette Park police officer shot and killed after fatal crash on South Side

As the Suburban officer pursued Thompson’s vehicle, police said the two occupants got out of the car and opened fire.

A shootout ensued, as a result of which the officer received a superficial wound to the neck.

Police said a 43-year-old bystander suffered gunshot wounds to both legs.

Both were treated for their injuries and are expected to be OK.

According to Merrionette Park police, Thompson is serving a two-year probation sentence in 2021 for aggravated unlawful use of a loaded weapon.