Shots Fired Shuts Down Eisenhower Expressway in Chicago

Police investigate incident on inbound lanes near Harlem Avenue

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The inbound lanes of the Eisenhower Expressway in Chicago were shut down on Monday afternoon as police responded to reports of shots fired on the interstate near Harlem Avenue. No injuries have been reported so far, and the investigation is ongoing.

Why it matters

The Eisenhower Expressway is a major thoroughfare in and out of downtown Chicago, so the closure caused significant traffic disruptions in the area. Incidents of gun violence on highways raise concerns about public safety and the need for increased security measures.

The details

Illinois State Police said they received a call around 1:45 p.m. about shots fired on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 290 at Austin Boulevard in Oak Park. Inbound traffic was diverted off the expressway at Harlem Avenue, and the Harlem Avenue entrance ramp to the inbound Eisenhower was also closed as of 3:15 p.m. while police investigated the incident.

  • The incident was reported around 1:45 p.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026.
  • The inbound lanes of the Eisenhower Expressway were shut down as of 3:15 p.m. on Monday.

The players

Illinois State Police

The state law enforcement agency that responded to the reports of shots fired on the Eisenhower Expressway.

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What’s next

Police will continue to investigate the incident and determine if any charges will be filed.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining public safety on major highways, especially in urban areas where gun violence can sometimes spill over onto thoroughfares. Authorities will likely review security protocols to prevent similar disruptions in the future.