Chicago police mourn loss of officer Krystal Rivera

CHICAGO (WGN) – Local law enforcement turned out in large numbers at the 6th Police District Wednesday to show support for the Chicago Police Department after Officer Krystal Rivera died after being accidentally shot and killed by another officer.

The shooting happened after a chase where one of the suspects allegedly pulled a gun on the officers.

Rivera, 36, was a four-year veteran of the CPD and was killed after another officer unintentionally shot her during a call for service on the South Side. She is the third officer the 6th Police District has lost in the last year.

Rivera was part of the 6th District Tactical Team and worked to make the streets of Chicago safer.

She was a mother and friend to many, and a protector to countless strangers.

“I think it’s important to have this. For the officers, it’s a tough hit. This is especially a tough hit. I think people in this city like the police, and I think police in this city get along with the community, but I came here for support for the guys and girls who work here, and like I said, this is a tough hit and everybody needs to come together,” retired CPD Officer Joey Battaglia said.

The poles and trees outside of the 6th District Station have been decorated with blue ribbons in Rivera’s honor. The ribbons were put up by volunteers with Light The Line.