One of Two Suspects in Chicago Officer’s Death Released, Sources Say, as Family and Colleagues Grieve
Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez Killed in the Line of Duty
One of the two suspects detained in connection with the shooting death of Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez, who was killed in the line of duty on Monday night, has been released without being charged, according to sources. This comes as Martinez’s family, friends, and colleagues begin to process their loss.
Prayer Vigil Held at 6th Police District
Father Michael Pfleger led a prayer vigil Tuesday afternoon at the 6th Police District in Auburn Gresham where Martinez worked. “We want to let them know we hurt with them and we love them and we support them,” Pfleger said. “I asked in that room how many in that room had lost a loved one. Almost everybody raised their hand. How many here have lost somebody that they love? We all have, just like those officers lost somebody that they love.”
Officer Martinez’s Death is the Fifth for CPD in Less than Four Years
Martinez’s death is the fifth such death in less than four years for the Chicago Police Department. Officer Ella French was killed in 2021, Officer Andrea Vasquez Lasso died in 2023, the same year as Officer Areanah Preston. Officer Luis Huesca died in April.
Officer Martinez’s Background
WGN News has been told that Martinez was engaged to be married soon and comes from a family of first responders. His brother is also a Chicago police officer.
Details of the Shooting Incident
Martinez was among a group of officers who conducted a traffic stop at around 8 p.m. Monday in the Chatham neighborhood on the city’s South Side. Three people were inside the vehicle when one of them opened fire, with at least one officer returning fire. Of the three suspects, one was shot and later died. Two were taken into custody while Martinez, who had been shot multiple times, was rushed to University of Chicago Medical Center where he died. Hundreds of his colleagues showed up to the hospital in support and later escorted his body to the city morgue.
Mayor’s Response
Mayor Brandon Johnson spoke with WGN News Tuesday evening regarding Monday’s tragedy and the dangers officers face every day. “We are resilient people and we are grateful people and my condolences have been extended to Officer Martinez’s family and to the entire police department,” Johnson said.
Citywide Crime Statistics
Citywide crime year to date is down by 11%. Overall, vehicle theft is down by almost a quarter on last year’s numbers. Homicide and robbery have also declined, but more progress needs to be made. “We have seen a decline in homicides, shootings, vehicular hijacking, robberies, criminal sexual assault. We are trending in the right direction. We have a long way to go, but I’m very confident that our police force and the people of Chicago will continue to step up to ensure that a better, stronger, safer Chicago is fully achieved,” Johnson said.
Officer Hit by Vehicle
Police said another officer was hit by a vehicle during Monday’s incident and is said to be okay.
Investigation Ongoing
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is investigating and the officers involved have been placed on routine administrative leave.
Conclusion
Officer Enrique Martinez’s senseless and tragic death is a devastating loss for his family, friends, and colleagues. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this loss. As we reflect on the dangers faced by our law enforcement officers, we must also acknowledge the progress being made in reducing crime in our city. We must continue to support our police force and work together to build a safer and stronger Chicago.
FAQs
* What happened to Officer Enrique Martinez?
Officer Martinez was shot and killed in the line of duty on Monday night while conducting a traffic stop.
* How many officers have been killed in the line of duty in the past four years?
Five officers have been killed in the line of duty in the past four years.
* What is the current citywide crime rate?
Citywide crime year to date is down by 11%.
* What is the status of the investigation?
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is investigating, and the officers involved have been placed on routine administrative leave.
