Slain CPD Officer Luis Huesca to be Honored with Memorial Foundation’s Highest Award

Officer’s Sacrifice remembered with Valor Award at Memorial Ceremony

Chicago Police Officer Luis Huesca, who was fatally shot this year while on his way home from work on the Southwest Side, will be awarded the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation’s highest honor.

Four Other Officers to Receive Distinguished Service Award

Eleven other officers and detectives who responded to and investigated Huesca’s shooting death will receive the foundation’s Distinguished Service Award. That includes members of the CPD Investigative Response Team, who recovered DNA evidence, fingerprints, and cell phone data that led to Tate’s arrest.

Foundation’s Statement on the Award

“Through their tireless efforts, this family of blue have brought a measure of solace to the Huesca family, ensuring that justice is served in honor of Officer Luis Huesca’s memory,” the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation said in a statement.

Officer Huesca’s Story: A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Huesca, 30, was driving home in his personal car wearing his police uniform when he was attacked early on the morning of April 21 in the 3100 block of West 56th Street, not far from his home in Gage Park. Officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert in the area and found Huesca with multiple gunshot wounds. He died at a hospital.

Agents are still searching for a hit-and-run driver involved in the case. Huesca’s Toyota 4Runner was stolen and later found a few blocks away.

Funeral and Tributes

Hundreds of people mourned Huesca at his funeral at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel. Edith Huesca, his mother, clutched a Chicago flag alongside his sister, Lily O’Brien, during the service. Officer Christian Calderon, Huesca’s partner and best friend, eulogized him, saying, “It feels like a nightmare. As we bid farewell to a man of honor, let us carry his legacy forward with every step we take. Let his bravery inspire us, his kindness humble us, and his memory guide us.”

Conclusion

Officer Luis Huesca’s sacrifice will never be forgotten. TheChicago Police Memorial Foundation’s highest award, the Valor Award, is a testament to his bravery and dedication to serving his community. The four other officers honorees this year will also be recognized for their own acts of courage and service.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What was Officer Huesca’s age at the time of his death? 30
• Where was Office Huesca attacked? 3100 block of West 56th Street
• What was the outcome of the investigation into Huesca’s death? The alleged shooter, Xavier Tate, 22, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated vehicular hijacking
• What is the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation? A nonprofit organization that provides support to the families of officers who are killed or injured in the line of duty