Chicago Police Officer Fatally Shot by Partner During Armed Confrontation in Apartment

This image provided by the Chicago Police Department shows police officer Krystal Rivera

Chicago police officer Krystal Rivera, 36, was unintentionally shot and killed by her partner during a chaotic confrontation with an armed suspect late Thursday night, according to authorities. The tragic incident occurred as officers pursued a suspect into an apartment and encountered another individual armed with a rifle.

Rivera, a four-year veteran of the department and mother of a 10-year-old daughter, was struck in the back by a single round fired by her partner. Police confirmed that no other individuals discharged weapons during the incident. The partner's gunfire was deemed unintentional, and the officer is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

The confrontation unfolded just before 10 p.m. when Rivera’s tactical unit attempted to stop a person suspected of carrying a weapon. The situation escalated into a foot chase that ended inside an apartment, where officers encountered an additional armed individual. Police reported that three firearms were recovered at the scene, and one person was taken into custody. Authorities have not yet disclosed the charges that may be filed.

Rivera was transported to the hospital by fellow officers in a squad car, which malfunctioned and caught fire en route. She was then transferred to another police vehicle, but died at the hospital less than an hour after the shooting.

Police Superintendent Larry Snelling described Rivera as “young, vibrant and a hard worker,” and expressed the department's deep sorrow over her loss. “This is a devastating tragedy for our entire law enforcement community,” Snelling said.

Rivera had expressed her passion for policing early in her career. “For me, it’s a privilege,” she had said after graduating from the police academy in 2021. “I come from a family of serving. To help people in need, that’s my calling.”

Rivera’s death has prompted renewed discussion about tactical safety and police training, particularly during high-risk situations involving armed suspects in confined spaces. The investigation into the shooting remains active, with oversight from internal affairs and city prosecutors.