Tinley Park Man Identified As Guard Killed In Gary Bank Shooting

TINLEY PARK, IL — The security guard who was fatally shot outside a Gary, Indiana bank over the weekend has been identified as a Tinley Park resident.

Richard Castellana, 55, was reportedly ambushed as he guarded the exterior of the First Midwest Bank during an attempted robbery, according to ABC News. Two suspects seen on bank surveillance cameras were carrying guns before ambushing Castellana.

The 55-year-old was a former Cook County Sheriff's Deputy, and he retired in 2019. Castellana served the Cook County Sheriff's Department for 35 years, according to a statement released by the department.

"We are saddened to hear about the tragic passing of our former Deputy Sheriff, Richard Castellana," the Cook County Sheriff's Office said in a statement. "Deputy Castellana served Cook County for 35 years until his retirement in 2019. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."

The Cook County Sheriff's Memorial Foundation said Castellana spent many years at the Bridgeview Courthouse and "was a beloved colleague, friend, and member of the law enforcement community."

The Lake County Sheriff's Office said 24-year-old James A. King, of Miami, Florida, has been charged with murder in perpetration of a robbery and armed robbery. Lake County Sheriff's Office said investigators believe King had a handgun during the crime, and apprehended him in a "wooded area."

Lake County said a report filed with the Indiana prosecutor’s office states a backpack containing a .40 caliber Glock model 22 handgun and approximately $9,000 was located near where King was apprehended.

Officials are still searching for the second suspect at this time. The FBI is investigating.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the security officer who was killed, as well as bank employees and others who witnessed these horrific crimes," Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said in a statement Monday.

"I thank officers of the Lake County Sheriff’s Department and all surrounding law enforcement agencies that responded to the scene quickly to help set up a perimeter near the bank. These actions were instrumental in aiding Lake County officers in the apprehension of this suspect.
We will continue to help the FBI in any way we can during this ongoing investigation."

According to his obituary, visitation for Castellana will take place at 1 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, with a prayer service at 4 p.m. at the Lawn Funeral Home, 17909 S. 94th Ave. in Tinley Park.