Police Shot During A Chase, Career Ending Injuries

Police Shot During A Chase, Career Ending Injuries. In the quiet hours on May 25, a police officer’s life changed forever. During what began as a routine investigation of a stolen vehicle in Romeoville, Illinois, Officer Dominic Thielmann was shot in the face and right shoulder in a dramatic foot chase that nearly claimed his life. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.

Now, Thielmann is speaking out about the incident, his long road to recovery, and how the near-fatal encounter has redefined his life, career, and mission. Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Medium and most all social media platforms

“I was chasing a suspect on foot, something that happens often in our line of work. I never imagined that night would end with a gun pointed at me and my life flashing before my eyes,” Thielmann said during an interview. Listen to the interview with him as a Free Podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.

The shooting occurred around 12:15 a.m. near Sierra Trail and Summerfield Drive in Romeoville. Thielmann and fellow officers had been investigating a stolen vehicle when the suspect bolted, prompting a pursuit that ended in a harrowing exchange of gunfire. Thielmann was struck, leaving him with injuries so severe they would ultimately end his career in law enforcement. Police Shot During A Chase, Career Ending Injuries. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium, Blogspot and Linkedin.

Despite his wounds, Thielmann survived. He was rushed to a Hospital in Maywood, where doctors stabilized him. Authorities later charged the suspect with armed robbery and set bond at $5 million, without the option of the usual 10% release.

In a public statement, the Romeoville Police Department expressed its appreciation for the overwhelming support Thielmann and his family received.

“The Romeoville Police Department would like to express sincere gratitude to those who have shown their support for Officer Thielmann and his family,” the department said in a news release.

The Village of Romeoville, located about 26 miles southwest of Chicago in Will County, rallied around Thielmann. Community members, law enforcement colleagues, and officials alike offered support. Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Medium and most all social media platforms.

"The staff and the community really came together to support Dominic and our RPD family. We couldn’t be more thankful," said Village Manager Dawn Caldwell.

After six years with the department, most recently as a tactical officer in the Investigations Unit, Thielmann's days in uniform are now behind him. But his commitment to public service remains stronger than ever.

“I can’t do the job the way I used to,” he shared. “But that doesn’t mean I’m done making an impact.”

Thielmann