Man who shot at SWAT team during hostage standoff killed a woman hours earlier, prosecutors say

Man Accused of Killing Woman and Shooting at Police Officers Faces Additional Charges

A man awaiting trial for allegedly shooting at Chicago police officers while holding his ex-girlfriend and her son hostage last year is now facing new charges for the murder of a woman in the days leading up to the incident.

Steven Wade, 44, has been in the Cook County Jail since March 2023 in connection with the hostage situation that culminated in a SWAT team raiding his ex-girlfriend’s home.

During a bail hearing on March 2, 2023, prosecutors revealed that Wade had shown up unannounced at his ex-girlfriend’s home on February 27, wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying multiple bags. The woman, who had not seen him in years, allowed him inside, but became alarmed when Wade started talking about his religious beliefs.

Concerned for her safety, the woman called a friend to listen in on their conversation. As the friend listened, Wade allegedly confessed to killing a security guard to obtain the gun and vest he was wearing. The friend immediately called 911, prompting police to respond to the scene.

When officers attempted to enter the home, Wade fired shots at them, forcing them to retreat. He then barricaded himself inside with his ex-girlfriend and her son, threatening to harm them if police did not back off. Despite negotiations, Wade continued to threaten the hostages and fired at officers multiple times.

A SWAT team was eventually called in, and after a tense standoff, they were able to rescue the hostages and apprehend Wade. Additional firearms were found in the home, including weapons capable of automatic fire.

Prosecutors have now charged Wade with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 58-year-old Bridgette Myles, who was found shot in her home hours before the hostage situation unfolded. Investigators were initially unsure of the cause of Myles’ death, but later determined she had been shot in the head.

Forensic evidence, fingerprints, and witness statements have linked Wade to Myles’ murder, leading to the new charges. Judge William Fahy ordered Wade to remain in jail, describing the murder as “a horrific act of violence.”

At the time of the murder and hostage situation, Wade was out on bail for a pending felony aggravated fleeing case from DuPage County.