The city of Chicago mourned the loss of an off-duty police officer, Luis M. Huesca, who was shot and killed while heading home from work. The 30-year-old officer, who was just days away from his 31st birthday, was remembered by hundreds of mourners who lined the funeral procession route to St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel. Huesca, a six-year veteran of the police department, was shot multiple times on the city’s Southwest Side. Police responded to a gunshot detection alert and found the officer outside with gunshot wounds. While his vehicle was taken, it is unclear if the shooting was part of a carjacking.
An arrest warrant was issued for a 22-year-old suspect in the shooting, who is considered armed and dangerous. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson initially planned to attend Huesca’s funeral but later decided not to after being informed by the officer’s mother that he was unwelcome. Mayor Johnson expressed his condolences to the family and colleagues of Officer Huesca and vowed to continue supporting the police and first responders in the city. Huesca had previously honored another slain officer, Andrés Vásquez Lasso, in a video, highlighting the bond among police officers as a family.
During the funeral service, Officer Lucia Chavez paid tribute to Huesca and Vásquez Lasso, expressing the pain of losing two classmates and friends to violence in the city. Superintendent Larry Snelling described Huesca as someone who always tried to leave things better than he found them, showing a commitment to protecting others every day. Huesca, a native of Chicago’s Avondale community, held a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is survived by his parents, sister, and brother, leaving a lasting impact on his family, friends, and colleagues.
The loss of Officer Huesca highlights the dangers faced by police officers in Chicago and the impact of violence on the community. The solidarity among law enforcement officers was evident in the emotional tribute to Huesca and Vásquez Lasso, emphasizing the bond that exists within the police force. As the city mourns the loss of another dedicated officer, there is a renewed call for unity and support for law enforcement and first responders. The tragic death of Luis M. Huesca serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by those who serve and protect the community.
