A Highwood police officer fatally shot a man who pointed a replica firearm at officers during a response to a welfare check on Thursday evening, authorities reported. The incident occurred shortly before 5 p.m. in the 200 block of Morgan Place, a residential area in the northern suburb of Chicago.

Officials with the Lake County Major Crime Task Force said police were called after a relative expressed concern for the man’s safety, describing him as highly intoxicated and suicidal. The caller indicated that the man’s ex-girlfriend was present inside the home, though the caller was not onsite.

Upon arrival, officers found the man had barricaded himself in a bathroom. Attempts to persuade him to exit were initially unsuccessful. During communication, the man stated he was armed and warned that police should be wearing protective vests.

The situation escalated when the individual suddenly emerged from the bathroom, brandishing what was later identified as a replica pistol. An officer fired at the man in response. Emergency personnel at the scene rendered aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities have withheld the man’s identity pending family notification.

The Lake County Major Crime Task Force is conducting an independent investigation into the shooting to determine the circumstances and whether department protocols were followed. No additional details about the type of replica firearm or the officer involved have been released.