Zimmerman Captured After Standoff at Chicago Restaurant

Written with artificial intelligence assistance.

Joshua Zimmerman, a fugitive wanted for murder and robbery in DeSoto County, has been apprehended following an overnight standoff at a Chicago restaurant. According to a statement released by the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department early this morning, Zimmerman was taken into custody at approximately 7:35 a.m. after barricading himself inside Seafood Junction, a restaurant located near the United Center.

ABC7 Chicago reported that Zimmerman was led out of the establishment in handcuffs. Authorities have indicated that a formal statement regarding the arrest will be issued later today.

Joshua ZimmermanPhoto byDeSoto County Sheriff's Department

Zimmerman had been on the run since June 14, when he evaded capture just before a scheduled court hearing in DeSoto County Circuit Court. Despite an extensive search and a $15,000 reward—$10,000 from the U.S. Marshals Service and $5,000 from the DeSoto County District Attorney’s office—Zimmerman remained at large until his recent sighting.

Chicago media outlets, including ABC7, confirmed that Zimmerman was alone inside the restaurant and that no other individuals were involved. The restaurant is located on West Madison Street, just three blocks west of the United Center, where the Democratic National Convention is currently taking place.

Zimmerman, who has also been implicated in crimes in Houston, Texas, and other locations, has been a high-profile target for law enforcement. His capture marks the end of a high-stakes manhunt that has captured national attention.