Chicago police officer dies in 18th District station on Near North Side; death investigation underway
A death investigation is underway after an off-duty Chicago police officer died at the 18th District police station on the Near North Side early Thursday morning.
The Chicago Police Department confirmed they are "mourning the tragic loss of an officer within the 18th District station."
CPD released the following statement:
"Our officers are human, and we cannot forget that they face the same challenges as everyone else while balancing the difficulties that come with being a police officer. We ask the public to keep this officer's family and her fellow officers in your prayers as we grieve this unimaginable loss."
A police department source confirms it appears the officer died by suicide, but the department is still investigating her death.
The 34-year-old woman had been on the force for nearly four years. CBS News Chicago is not identifying the officer out of respect for her family and fellow officers.
There was a large police presence outside the 18th District Police Department entrance earlier in the morning. The station was wrapped in crime scene tape at Division and Larabee streets.
Video from the scene showed officers saluting outside an ambulance and a large police presence was later seen outside Northwestern Memorial Hospital. From there, officers lined a procession to the Cook County Medical Examiner's office, where the officer's body was taken.
Mayor Brandon Johnson said the "city mourns the tragic loss" of the officer. He released the following statement on Thursday:
"Our hearts are shattered and broken over this tragedy. My deepest condolences and ardent prayers are with the officer's family, loved ones, and fellow officers as we grieve. This tragedy is a reminder that we must carry each other. Every single day, our officers witness traumatic scenes, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the support they need to navigate that reality. I ask the city to keep the officer's family and loved ones, 18th District officers and staff, and the entire Chicago Police Department in your prayers during this time of immense grief."
Thursday morning, Chicago Police Memorial Foundation executive director Philip Cline paid tribute to the officer as the organization prepared to recognize 14 officers as Officer of the Month recipients.
"We know you are all reeling in pain, but we also know you will push through and continue to show up for your communities. That is why we feel it's so important to recognize your valiant efforts today and every day," Cline told officers.
The 18th District police station was closed for service for the day as detectives continue the investigation, CPD confirmed.
Anyone in need of assistance can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. The service is available 24/7. More information is available at 988lifeline.org.
This is a developing story. CBS News Chicago will continue to provide updates.
