Harvey Murder Suspect was 'Ready for a Shootout' with Police

HARVEY, IL — Police have arrested a suspect in the fatal shooting of a Canadian National railroad security guard last week. Rashad Williams, 24, of East Hazel Crest, was arrested late Sunday, ABC7 reports. Williams is suspected of shooting Tyrone Hardin, 38, the night of Nov. 26.

Williams was arrested in Chicago Heights, where police had received a tip of someone resembling the suspect's description. Officers surveilled the area and spotted Williams carrying grocery bags near 114th Street and East End Avenue.

Williams allegedly told police that he was armed "prepared for a shootout with them," but he was not able to pull a gun before his arrest, Chicago Tribune reports.

Hardin was on the job as security guard for Canadian National railway when he encountered Williams fleeing from police. Williams had reportedly stolen a car, later crashing it while being pursued by authorities. He then fled on to Canadian Railroad property, tripping an alarm. Hardin—a contracted security guard with Gideon 300 Security Services—was shot in the abdomen as he responded to the alarm. He died later that night.

Hardin, who was married to 40-year-old Gwinette Oliver, had been working as a security guard as a second job, to earn extra money for buying his children Christmas presents. Hardin was father to one 5-year-old son with Oliver, and stepfather to her four other children, ABC7 reports. He also had a son from a previous marriage.

Williams stole Hardin's car, fled police, and eluded authorities for days.

Photo: Rashad Williams, 24