Suspect arrested after shooting victim goes to Freeport bar for help, police say

FREEPORT, Ill. (WIFR) - Police have a suspect in custody following a shooting where the victim went to a local bar for help.

Michael Blasing, 66, of Freeport, is charged with aggravated battery with a firearm.

Freeport police say on Thursday, Oct. 30, a 43-year-old man went to Pretzel City Pub, 1350 W. Galena Ave., for help after he was shot nearby.

Employees at the bar called 911 and first responders took him to a Freeport hospital. He was eventually taken to a Rockford hospital because of the severity of his injuries.

Detectives identified Blasing as the suspect and arrested him on Halloween. He is expected to make his first appearance in court on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Pretzel City Pub posted on Facebook thanking the emergency personnel for their quick response.