Also in the news: the Archdiocese of Chicago will institute a "mask optional" policy in schools starting Thursday; Chicago police say they've found the man who allegedly led a ring responsible for several smash-and-grab burglaries of stores in various parts of the city; Chicago Police are questioning suspects in the murders of two teenage boys - killed in separate incidents on the south side yesterday afternoon; and much more. 

In other top stories: Gary police detective recovering after on-duty shooting; Northern Illinois University student died of medical causes, coroner says; former Aurora police chief is now a cake maker; and more. 

Also in the news: a Police Sergeant in Gary is recovering - after being hit by gunfire while on duty yesterday afternoon; Governor Pritzker is calling for a freeze on the state's gasoline tax; a Glenview man is found guilty of selling a so-called "ghost gun"; and much more. 

In other top stories: Illinois governor pushing back at court decision on masks; retailers demand stiffer punishment for smash-and-grabs; Illinois state police say they're making progress on solving expressway shootings; and more.

Also in the news: a man is in serious condition after a shooting in Wicker Park early yesterday morning; the state of Illinois is taking applications for violence-prevention grants; Lincolnwood police say a senior citizen was held captive by a home invader for a time overnight; and much more.