Suspect in Custody
The family of a 16-year-old accused killer left court shortly after the teen was detained in connection with the murder of retired Chicago Police Officer Larry Newman. Lazarus Watt, the accused, turned himself in over the weekend and has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder.
Incident Details
Investigators report that on Thursday morning, Watt and another gunman approached Newman outside his home in West Garfield Park. Newman was paying someone for lawn mowing services when the assailants confronted him.
One of the gunmen shouted “freeze” and grabbed for Newman. The retired officer backed up and reached for his own gun, but was shot by Watt’s co-defendant. Newman managed to fire one shot but was struck twice and later succumbed to his injuries at a hospital.
Home Confinement Violations
At the time of the murder, Watt was on home confinement and had over half a dozen violations since being placed on electronic monitoring six months prior. He was scheduled for arraignment in juvenile court on a carjacking charge.
Community Reaction
Larry Newman, a 73-year-old retired officer, is remembered as a hero who pushed a landscaper out of harm’s way during the shooting. Known as a part-time pastor and the longest-serving explosives specialist with the CPD, Newman is celebrated for his dedication to his family, church, and community.
Ongoing Investigation
The search for a second suspect, captured on surveillance video, continues as the investigation progresses.
