Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson Issues Statement on the Tragic Death of CPD Officer Krystal Rivera
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CHICAGO, IL — Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01) issued the following statement in response to the tragic death of Officer Krystal Rivera, a 6th District Chicago Police Officer who was fatally shot in the line of duty in the Chatham neighborhood:
“I am heartbroken by the senseless and tragic loss of Officer Krystal Rivera — a courageous public servant, a devoted mother, and a beloved member of our community. My deepest prayers and condolences go out to her family, her fellow officers in the Chicago Police Department, and all who knew and cherished her.
Officer Rivera embodied the very spirit of service, showing up each day to protect and care for the community she loved. Her life was taken far too soon in an act of violence that underscores the urgent crisis we face in Chicago and across the nation.
We must honor her memory not only with words but with action. That means delivering swift and full justice, but also taking bold, comprehensive steps to address the root causes of violence — poverty, trauma, lack of opportunity, and the widespread availability of illegal firearms.
No officer should lose their life while protecting our streets. No family should be forced to grieve a loved one due to preventable violence. We must move with urgency and compassion — investing in public safety, mental health services, youth programs, and economic development that strengthens our communities from the inside out.
Officer Rivera gave her life in service to Chicago. We must ensure her sacrifice is not in vain. May she rest in peace, and may her legacy live on in the work we do to build a safer, more just city for all.”
Congressman Jackson continues to work with local and federal partners to advance community-based safety strategies and legislation that supports law enforcement, addresses gun violence, and strengthens neighborhood resilience throughout Illinois’ 1st Congressional District.
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