CHICAGO — A Chicago Police officer took his life Tuesday, police said.
The 36-year-old officer was pronounced dead Tuesday morning at his home in Jefferson Park, according to Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office records.
The Chicago Police Department confirmed the officer’s death, noting he worked in the Bureau of Technical Services.
The officer worked out of the Englewood (7th) District, according to WGN.
The Fraternal Order of Police, writing in a post on Facebook, said an officer had died by suicide.
“We ask that everyone keep this officer and his family in your prayers,” the police union wrote.
The Chicago Police Department’s suicide rate is 60 percent higher than that of other police departments, according to a Department of Justice investigation. Just in 2018, the department saw four officers die by suicide.
“Our hearts are heavy at the beginning of the new year with the news of a Jefferson Park resident taking his own life,” Ald. John Arena (45th) said in a statement. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the first responders’ community.”
Those experiencing suicidal thoughts call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text the Crisis Text Line by messaging TALK to 741741. Police officers can text the word BLUE to 741741.
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