2 teens charged with murder for allegedly killing retired Chicago police officer

CHICAGO (TCN) -- A 16-year-old and 17-year-old have been arrested and charged with murder on suspicion of killing a former police officer who was standing in his front yard.

According to the Chicago Police Department, on June 20 at around 11:30 a.m., the two teens were reportedly walking on the 4300 block of West Monroe Street when they approached 73-year-old Larry Neuman and shot him. The department released surveillance footage of two suspects walking down an alley and asked the public for help identifying them.

On June 23, police arrested a 16-year-old for first-degree murder. On Friday, June 28, Chicago Police announced they located the 17-year-old and took him into custody in connection with Neuman’s death. Police said the 17-year-old is also being charged for his alleged involvement in an armed robbery that occurred in November.

Chicago Police described Neuman as "a pillar of the community who dedicated his entire life to protecting and supporting others," adding, "Even after retiring from CPD, he continued working to create safe spaces for the residents and youth in his community."

WGN-TV reports the shooting occurred when Neuman was outside giving money to someone doing work on his lawn. He reportedly saw the teens approaching with guns, so he protected the worker and reached for his own firearm but was fatally wounded.

The 16-year-old, Lazarius Watt, was on home confinement for allegedly previously stealing a car at the time of the shooting. Watt’s mother reportedly saw the video about identifying the suspects and had him surrender. The teens will reportedly be tried as adults.

Chicago Police said Neuman worked as an explosives technician. He was the longest-serving bomb technician in the police department’s history.

MORE: