Convicted Felon Charged with Attempted Murder After Shooting Acquaintance in East Garfield Park

A convicted felon with a significant criminal history shot a longtime acquaintance on an East Garfield Park street earlier this month, lingered at the scene as police responded, and then casually walked away, according to prosecutors.

Bernard Butler, 44, is now facing charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery by discharging a firearm, and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon. Judge James Murphy III has ordered him to be held in custody pending trial.

According to prosecutors, the 36-year-old victim was talking with another person near the corner of Hamlin and Madison around 8:45 p.m. on July 3 when he saw Butler approaching. The victim had known Butler for about six years and had seen him numerous times during that period, the petition said.

Allegedly, Butler became agitated and started yelling at the man, getting “within inches” of him as the two squared off. Despite a witness trying to de-escalate the situation, Butler suddenly pulled out a gun and opened fire from less than three feet away. The victim managed to deflect Butler’s arm to avoid being shot in the head and ran.

The victim sustained serious injuries, with nine gunshot wounds in his hand, thigh, buttocks, and groin. He underwent surgery and is expected to need at least two more operations. Prosecutors stated that one of his testicles had to be removed due to the injuries.

After the shooting, Butler allegedly returned to his bicycle and loitered within 100 feet of the crime scene for several minutes as police responded. He then briefly went to a nearby apartment, acting as if nothing had happened, before reemerging, lingering in the area, and eventually driving away in a Buick LaSabre.

Surveillance footage captured the confrontation, the muzzle flash, and Butler’s movements after the incident. Police also recovered a 9mm firearm near the location where Butler briefly went after the shooting, according to prosecutors.

A witness called 911 upon seeing Butler back in the neighborhood, which led to his arrest.

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