WGN-TV

Man killed, second man critical after confronting WeatherTech coworker about robbery

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. — A man was killed and a second man is in critical condition following a shooting at WeatherTech’s distribution center in Bolingbrook.

Police said the injured men were employees of WeatherTech and were shot by a coworker after confronting him about a robbery.

Police have identified the victim as 37-year-old Central Hightower, from Plainfield.

Charles McKnight Jr., 27, of Chicago, is in custody and charges are pending.

According to police officers responded to 1 WeatherTech Way around 6:30 a.m. Saturday for reports of a person shot.

Upon arrival, officers entered the building and found three people shot.

McKnight (photo provided by Bolingbrook PD)

Officers were able to determine that McKnight was involved in the incident and had fled the scene.

Multiple law enforcement agencies assisted with the searched for the person responsible for the shooting. Police said he was found in the rear of a residence in the 500 block of Larkspur Lane and taken into custody around 9:30 a.m.

Police also located a handgun.

Police said the preliminary investigation indicates at the end of the overnight shift, the man was confronted by employees after he allegedly robbed two co-workers at gun point.

Police said when he was confronted, an argument ensued and he pulled out a handgun and shot three coworkers.

Upon his arrest, proceeds of the robbery were located on McKnight’s person.

Police said McKnight was with a temporary employment agency and was only assigned to the WeatherTech Facility since June 9.

First degree murder charges and attempted first degree murder charges are pending.

A 25-year-old man remains in critical condition. Police said he was also one of the earlier robbery victims.

A 43-year-old man was treated and released.

Police said WeatherTech has been in constant contact with investigators and “were very concerned for the safety of all of their employees.”