Fundraiser honors wounded Chicago Police Officer Nelson Crespo, supports ongoing recovery after Swedish Hospital shooting

Officer Nelson Crespo paralyzed, partner Officer John Bartholomew killed in April shooting at Swedish Hospital on North Side CHICAGO (WLS) -- Family, friends and colleagues of Chicago Police Officer Nelson Crespo gathered Friday in Wrigleyville to support his recovery and honor his service, which supporters said represents the best of the Chicago Police Department. The event featured a ceremonial welcome as Crespo reunited with supporters at Old Crow Smokehouse, nearly five months after he was critically wounded in a shooting inside Swedish Hospital on the city's North Side. For Crespo, the journey to the fundraiser was a significant milestone. "It's emotional. It's emotional to know that he's given so much to the Chicago Police Department and the city of Chicago," said CPD Detective Moses Woods, a friend of Crespo's. Crespo was critically wounded in April.

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Scoop News DeskChicago, Illinois · Published Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 4:46 AM UTCUpdated Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 11:26 PM UTC

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Throughout the event, loved ones greeted Crespo, shared words of encouragement and reflected on a recovery that many said they are grateful to witness. "And all your prayers and thoughts make me come back, so I can enjoy your company, and let's celebrate this as a miracle," Crespo said. 1 dead — Officer John Bartholomew A suspect, Alphanso Talley, has since been charged in the case.