CHICAGO — Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera, a single mother and 5-year veteran of the department, was shot and killed in the line of duty early Thursday morning while responding to a domestic violence call on the city’s Southwest Side, according to initial reports shared by law enforcement sources and community posts.
The shooting occurred near 52nd Street and Damen Avenue, where Rivera and her partner were dispatched around 2 a.m. for a report of an armed man threatening his girlfriend. According to police scanner traffic and community updates, the situation escalated when officers attempted to approach the suspect. Rivera was reportedly struck in the neck by gunfire and rushed to a nearby hospital by fellow officers.
She later died from her injuries.
Who Was Officer Krystal Rivera?
Rivera had been with the Chicago Police Department’s 9th District and served on community engagement initiatives alongside patrol work. She was known for her commitment to youth programming and neighborhood outreach, often participating in back-to-school events and safety forums. An emotional tribute on Instagram by @illinois_five0 described Rivera as:
“A single mom… she was just trying to do her job. This one feels different. It’s personal.”
She was also said to be active in the Office of Constitutional Policing and Reform, as noted by her badge in the tribute image that has since circulated widely.
What Happened at the Scene?
Sources told CBS Chicago that the suspect had a history of domestic violence and firearm possession. As officers approached the scene, he allegedly opened fire from inside the residence. A SWAT team was later called to clear the area, and the suspect is now reportedly in custody, though police have not yet released his identity publicly.
The Chicago Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is now investigating the incident, and the Fraternal Order of Police has confirmed support will be provided to Rivera’s family.
Community and City Reaction
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has not yet issued a formal statement but is expected to speak at a press briefing Friday. The city has seen a troubling spike in officer-involved shootings and line-of-duty deaths over the past two years.
City Council members and several community organizations have already begun organizing memorial fundraisers and tributes. One alderman said on X (formerly Twitter), “This is a heartbreaking reminder of what our officers face every day.”
The last time a Chicago officer was killed in similar circumstances was in March 2023, when Officer Andrés Vásquez Lasso was shot while pursuing a domestic assault suspect in Gage Park.
What We Know So Far
-
Officer Rivera was responding to a domestic violence call when she was shot.
-
The incident occurred near 52nd & Damen around 2 a.m. on June 6, 2025.
-
Rivera was transported to the hospital by fellow officers but did not survive.
-
The suspect is believed to be in custody, but police have not officially confirmed his name.
-
Investigations are underway by both CPD and COPA.
Were you impacted by this tragedy or do you know someone in the 9th District who worked with Officer Rivera? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments.
Stay connected with ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for real updates on local safety, law enforcement, and stories that matter across Chicago.
