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Authorities have identified the man shot and killed by Aurora police during a barricade incident on Wednesday afternoon.
The Kane County Coroner’s Office identified the man as 27-year-old Temesgen Welendreyas of Aurora.
An autopsy conducted this week revealed Welendreyas died from multiple gunshot wounds.
The incident began around 12:35 p.m. Wednesday in the 300 block of South Broadway.
Officers initially responded to a report of a battery and a person armed with a weapon.
Upon arrival, police found Welendreyas barricaded inside and armed with a knife.
Police say the man displayed the knife when officers encountered him during the standoff.
Officers fired their weapons, striking Welendreyas at least once.
Police provided immediate medical aid until paramedics arrived to take over his care.
Welendreyas was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The officers involved in the shooting were also taken to a hospital for evaluation.
The Fox Valley Major Crimes Task Force has taken over the investigation into the shooting.
Aurora police will not participate in the probe to ensure a neutral investigation.
The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office will review the final findings once the task force finishes its report.
Officials say the full investigation and report could take several months to complete.
Toxicology results for the deceased are currently pending.
Community Calls for Accountability
The fatal shooting has sparked a wave of concern among Aurora residents regarding mental health and police tactics.
“Prayers to the family of this young man,” one local resident shared. “If they always say mental health is an issue for them, then it should be the same for black and brown [people].”
The resident, who recognized Welendreyas from the downtown area, added, “They lost a son, brother, a friend.”
Other community members are questioning why non-lethal methods, such as tasers or mental health advocates, were not used to de-escalate the situation.
“Where is the mental advocate that is supposed to be on the scene?” another commenter asked. “Where were the tasers? Was that an option, or is it pull trigger then tase?”
Some residents are also calling for higher-level oversight beyond the local task force.
“I believe the State Police and the Illinois AG or an independent prosecutor should investigate and make any charging decisions when a local police officer kills a citizen,” one advocate stated.
