Another officer has been killed in the line of duty due to rising crime. On November 4, 2024, at approximately 8 p.m., Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez, a 26-year-old man, was murdered by an armed assailant. Officer Martinez was performing his duty in a high-crime area when he pulled over a vehicle containing his attacker. Unbeknownst to Officer Martinez, the individuals in the car possessed a semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine and were prepared to use it. As he approached the vehicle, the suspect opened fire, injuring both officers on the scene. Officer Martinez later succumbed to his injuries at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Two suspects are in custody, and one was fatally wounded.
Officer Martinez had served with the Chicago Police Department for nearly three years, just one month shy of his anniversary, and was assigned to the 6th District. He leaves behind a fiancée and family. May Officer Martinez rest in peace, knowing his fellow officers will continue the work he courageously undertook.
Mayor Johnson issued a full statement Tuesday morning. It says:
“I am deeply heartbroken that we lost a member of the Chicago Police Department yesterday. The entire city of Chicago joins me in mourning this profound loss. “Every day, the brave men and women of the Chicago Police Department risk their lives to keep our city safe, and yesterday, one of them made the greatest sacrifice. “There will be justice for the officer’s family. There will be justice for our city. And there will be justice for the Chicago Police Department. The whole city and I stand with the officer’s family and loved ones, as well as the Chicago Police Department as they endure this tragedy. “I will remain in constant communication with the Chicago Police Department as the investigation unfolds, and we will provide updates as they become available.”
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker also issued a statement on social media, saying:
“Heartbroken as Illinois wakes up to the news that CPD Officer Enrique Martinez lost his life in the line of duty last night. Thinking of his family and fellow officers as we mourn the passing of this young, dedicated officer. May his memory be a blessing.”
If this tragedy is truly heartbreaking for city and state officials, perhaps it’s time for a closer look at policies that allow criminals to act without fear of law enforcement. For years, flawed policies have plagued this city, harming hard-working, low-income communities and allowing repeat offenders to go free. Each time an officer falls in the line of duty, politicians are quick to offer thoughts and prayers but slow to address the policies that contribute to these tragedies.