Police say a man who appeared to be carrying a loaded weapon walked into a suburban police station and made a startling demand.

The man, later identified as Howard R. Lazarus, 54, of Mundelein, told officers he had been involved in an accident, and said he wanted to file a report.

When an officer entered the lobby to meet with him, he pointed a gun at the officer.

The officer drew his gun, and told Lazarus to drop the gun several times.

He then took several steps towards the officer, and in response, the officer fired at Lazarus striking him once in the abdomen. He was taken to the hospital and is listed in fair condition.

A hand-written note was found in Lazarus’ pocket that stated in part: “I apologize for placing your officers in this position. I am dying from cancer and couldn’t do the deed myself.”

His weapon was a metal, 9mm semi-automatic “replica gun.”

Lazarus has been charged with one count of Aggravated Assault, a Class IV Felony.

The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending a full investigation of the incident.

This is the first police-involved shooting in the history of the Vernon Hills Police Department.