By Mark Weyermuller, Contributor
On Monday, funeral services were held for Chicago Police Officer Luis Huesca who was murdered on his way home after his shift on April 21. The service was held at Saint Rita of Cascia Shrine in Chicago. A private interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery.. Over a thousand police officers attended the funeral and formed a mile long procession to the cemetery.
Cardinal Blase Cupich attended the funeral mass. Not attending the mass were Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker – as it was reported that both were asked to not attend by members of Huesca’s family.
In a statement last week, Mayor Brandon Johnson said Huesca’s death was “an act of unconscionable gun violence in our community.” He is blaming the gun rather than a criminal who has no regard for human life. Many feel Mayor Johnson is using this senseless killing to promote his own political agenda. There is a large feeling among the rank and file of the police department that Johnson does not support the police. And surprisingly only a handful of the 50 Chicago Aldermen attended the funeral.
Huesca was shot and killed in an apparent robbery and carjacking attempt in Gage Park on Sunday, April 21. His vehicle, badge, and firearm were stolen at that time. Xavier Tate Jr has been named as a suspect in the murder with a $100,000 reward now being offered for information on his whereabouts.
One year ago, Chicago Police Officer Aréanah Preston was shot and killed in front of her home after finishing her night shift on May 10, 2023. Four suspects were arrested, ages 16-18 years old.
This Saturday is the Run to Remember, the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation’s annual 5K run/walk that raises funds to support families of fallen and catastrophically injured Chicago Police Officers.
