Daniel H. Escalera Obituary, Death – The man who was fatally shot by a police officer after a violent encounter at an assisted living facility in St. Charles has been identified as 24-year-old Daniel H. Escalera from Stockwell, Indiana. The incident occurred on Sunday morning at the River Glen of St. Charles assisted living center. Escalera was pronounced dead at Delnor Hospital later that day, following the altercation that began with him wielding a chainsaw.
Escalera, who had no known connection to St. Charles or the facility, was reportedly acting erratically when he was first spotted attempting to cut down a tree on the property with a chainsaw. The initial call to the St. Charles Police was made around 8:45 a.m. for a welfare check after witnesses reported seeing a shirtless man on the premises with the chainsaw. Before officers could arrive, reports indicated that Escalera had entered the building and begun confronting residents with the weapon.
Upon their arrival, officers attempted to de-escalate the situation. However, Escalera became increasingly aggressive, reportedly using the chainsaw in a threatening manner toward both residents and officers. In an attempt to neutralize the threat, officers deployed a Taser, but this had no effect on Escalera’s behavior. Given the escalating danger, one officer was forced to fire his service weapon, striking Escalera.
Following the shooting, Escalera was transported to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Despite the severity of the incident, the officers and residents involved were treated at the scene for minor injuries and released shortly thereafter.
The situation has prompted an investigation by the Illinois State Police, who will review the officer’s actions to determine whether the use of force was justified. Once the investigation is complete, reports will be submitted to the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office for an independent review.
In response to the incident, River Glen of St. Charles assured the public of the safety of their residents and staff. The assisted living facility issued a statement expressing their gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement. The statement emphasized that this was an isolated event, and no residents or staff were harmed. River Glen reassured the community that the safety and security of their residents remain their top priority, and they are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.
This tragic incident has raised questions about the use of force and the events leading up to the officer’s decision to fire. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the circumstances surrounding Escalera’s actions and the response from law enforcement.
