Police in Chicago have released surveillance images of a suspect believed to be connected to the tragic murder of Officer Luis Huesca. The incident occurred early Sunday morning as Officer Huesca was driving home from work.
The surveillance video, which was released on Monday night, shows the suspect entering convenience stores on Saturday and walking on a sidewalk early Sunday. Authorities have described the suspect as armed and dangerous.
Officer Huesca was shot multiple times in the Gage Park neighborhood around 3 a.m. on Sunday. Police responded to a gunshot detection in the 3100 block of W. 56th St. and found Officer Huesca outside his home with gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Sources have indicated that Officer Huesca was shot nearly 20 times with what is believed to have been a firearm equipped with a 'switch' to convert it into an automatic weapon. Despite being off-duty, Officer Huesca was still in uniform, albeit covered by other clothing, which is standard practice for off-duty officers.
During the incident, Officer Huesca's vehicle was stolen and later recovered nearby. While initial reports suggested a possible carjacking, the police have not confirmed this detail. Additionally, there are unconfirmed reports that Officer Huesca's firearm was also stolen.
Officer Huesca had served with the Chicago Police Department for six years and tragically passed away just two days before his 31st birthday. Police Superintendent Larry Snelling expressed condolences for the loss of Officer Huesca.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect or the shooting to contact the Area One Detective Division to assist in the ongoing investigation.
