Luis M. Huesca was a Chicago Police Department officer who was fatally shot on 21 April 2024 while returning home after work. He was a six-year veteran of the department and was two days from his 31st birthday.
Xavier L. Tate Jr. was later charged with first-degree murder, aggravated vehicular hijacking and possession of a stolen firearm. Public reporting and police memorial records state that Huesca's vehicle and firearm were taken after the shooting.
Career
Huesca joined the Chicago Police Department in 2018. The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation lists him as Star #18913 and states that he served for six years, one month and five days.
He was assigned to the 5th District, Calumet, and detailed to Unit 212, Deputy Chief, Area 2. Memorial records list department commendations and other recognition from his service.
Death
Huesca was shot in the early hours of 21 April 2024 in the area of 3138 West 56th Street in Chicago. He had finished his shift and was returning home while still in uniform.
Police and prosecutors alleged that Tate approached Huesca's vehicle, fired multiple shots, then took the vehicle and Huesca's firearm. Huesca was taken to the University of Chicago Hospital and pronounced dead.
Investigation and Charges
The investigation involved Chicago Police, the U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force and other law-enforcement partners. Public reports described video evidence, recovered clothing, fingerprints, DNA and a water bottle linked to the suspect.
Tate was arrested in Glendale Heights on 1 May 2024. A judge denied pre-trial release after prosecutors outlined the evidence. In June 2024, Tate pleaded not guilty.
Memorial
Huesca's funeral was held on 29 April 2024. Police officers, relatives and community members attended events honouring his life and service.
The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation lists Huesca on its fallen-officer memorial page. It records his end of watch as 21 April 2024.
References
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