The City of Chicago is in mourning following the tragic death of Officer Krystal Rivera, as loved ones and colleagues remember her courage and dedication. Officer Rivera, only four years into her service with the Chicago Police Department, was unintentionally shot by another officer during a confrontation in the city's South Side neighborhood of Chatham, according to CBS News. Rivera and her partner were pursuing a suspect when the incident occurred.
During the attempted arrest on Thursday night, after the suspect fled into an apartment, Rivera was confronted by an individual wielding a rifle. According to CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling, quoted in a statement obtained by CBS News, it was then that "an officer discharged a weapon." Rivera was inadvertently struck by her partner's gunfire as they gave chase. Tragically, Rivera was also rushed to the hospital in a vehicle that caught fire due to a mechanical issue and had to be transferred to another vehicle before reaching the University of Chicago Medical Center, where she later died.
As per WGN-TV, she was remembered in a gathering at St. Sabina Church, where Rev. Michael Pfleger emphasized the communal nature of mourning, stating, "It’s not about race or creed or neighborhood." In addition, CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling described Officer Rivera as an exemplar of the force's values, appreciated for her "smart, assertive, tough, compassionate and professional" approach to policing.
"The foundation says they are praying for Rivera’s family and promise to support her daughter in the days, weeks and years to come," as stated by WGN-TV. Volunteers with Light the Line are showing their support by placing blue ribbons on poles and trees in honor of the officer.
