2025 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Police Officer Andres Mauricio Vasquez Lasso #7649
E.O.W. 01 March 2023
Incident and Biographic Details
Police Officer Andrés Mauricio Vásquez Lasso, Star #7649, aged 32 years, was a 4 year, 11 month, 13 day veteran of the Chicago Police Department, assigned to the 8th District – Chicago Lawn.
On March 1, 2023, at approximately 4:43 p.m., Officer Vásquez Lasso and his partner responded to a domestic-related call about a man chasing a woman down the street with a gun on the 5200 block of South Spaulding Avenue. The responding officers observed Steven S. Montano, age 18, of 2545 South Lawndale Avenue, fleeing from the scene on foot. They exited their squad car in an attempt to stop Montano, giving chase. They were able to engage with Montano as he continued to flee from the officers. At 4:52 p.m., Montano opened fire on Officer Vásquez Lasso at 5217 South Spaulding Avenue striking him multiple times. Mortally wounded, Officer Vásquez Lasso was able to return fire striking Montano several times. Officer Vásquez Lasso was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital by CFD Ambulance #8 where he was pronounced deceased on arrival by Dr. Chang at 5:28 a.m. on March 1, 2023.
The offender, Steven S. Montano was placed into custody on scene and was transported to Cook County Hospital by CFD Ambulance #69. Montano’s handgun was recovered on scene. On July 21, 2025, Montano was found guilty of first-degree murder during a jury trial.
Officer Vásquez Lasso was waked at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, located at 4727 W. 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL. His funeral mass was held on March 9, 2023 at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, located at 7740 S. Western Avenue.
Police Officer Andrés Mauricio Vásquez Lasso, born June 23, 1990, received his Probationary Appointment to the Chicago Police Department on March 16, 2018. He attended the Jackson Street Police Academy and was issued Star #7649 on October 5, 2018. Officer Vasquez Lasso earned 1 Attendance Recognition Award, 1 2019 Crime Reduction Ribbon, 4 Honorable Mentions and 3 Emblems of Recognition for Physical Fitness during his career.
Officer Vásquez Lasso was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He was survived by his wife, Milena Estepa; mother, Rocio Lasso; sister, Carolina Vasquez and niece Alejandra Guevara.
On September 7, 2023, Officer Vásquez Lasso’s star was retired by Interim Superintendent Fred L. Waller and enshrined in the Superintendent’s Honored Star Case, located in the lobby at Chicago Police Headquarters, 3510 South Michigan Avenue.
2025 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Police Officer Luis M. Huesca #18913
E.O.W. 21 April 2024
Incident and Biographic Details
Police Officer Luis M. Huesca, Star #18913, aged 30 years, was a 6 year, 1 month, 5 day veteran of the Chicago Police Department, assigned to the 5th District – Calumet and detailed to Unit 212 – Deputy Chief – Area 2.
On April 21, 2024, at 2:52 a.m., Officer Huesca was returning home after his shift at 3138 West 56th Street while still dressed in police uniform. As he pulled into his driveway Xavier Tate Jr., age 22, walked up to his vehicle and fired 10 shots. Officer Huesca was hit multiple times in the head, chest arms and thighs. Tate then took Officer Huesca’s firearm and vehicle and fled the scene. Beat 825, Officers Arce and Rosito were dispatched to investigate a Shot Spotter alert at that location and discovered Officer Huesca on the ground suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. An ambulance was summoned and the search for the involved individual(s) began. Officer Huesca was transported to the University of Chicago Hospital by CFD Ambulance #78 where he was pronounced deceased by Dr. Zakrisson at 3:22 a.m. on April 21, 2024.
Officer Huesca’s vehicle was located a short time later abandoned in an alley and nearby video showed Tate Jr. changing his clothes, stealing a bicycle, and then riding away after abandoning Officer Huesca’s Car. A description of Tate Jr. was then released by investigating detectives. A $10,000 reward was issued by Crime Stoppers and a $25,000 reward was issued by the Fraternal Order of Police for information that led to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible.
During the ensuing investigation Detectives and Support Personnel were able to collect overwhelming evidence against Tate Jr. Video from nearly a hundred cameras tracking his movements before and immediately after the shooting was also obtained. The video led investigators to a convenience store where Tate Jr. purchased a bottle of water using his mother’s electronic benefits (EBT) card. The use of that card helped investigators establish a timeline, which eventually, revealed Tate Jr.’s movements back to as early as Friday afternoon, April 19, 2024.
On the day of the murder, at 2:41 a.m., Tate Jr. purchased the bottle of water at Walgreen’s and then walked towards Officer Huesca’s home. Shortly thereafter at 2:52 a.m., he encountered Officer Huesca and murdered him, hijacking the vehicle. His evasion of police started immediately after the incident, changing his clothes and stealing a bicycle from a yard on the 5600 block of South California Avenue. As he tossed the bicycle over the rear fence and into the alley he left behind his palm print which was later lifted by Evidence Technicians. Tate Jr. then rode the bicycle to his cousin’s house. During that ride, he dropped his cellphone in an alley. That cellphone was also recovered by Evidence Technicians and a search warrant was executed on the phone, confirming Tate Jr’s location and the timeline. A few hours later, Tate Jr. called an Uber for a ride to the home of Caschaus Tate, a relative, located on the 10800 block of South Hale Avenue. He then crossed three state lines in the following 10 days, traveling to Rockford, Illinois; Dubuque, Iowa; Madison, Wisconsin and then back to Glendale Heights, Illinois.
Xavier Tate Jr.’s DNA was recovered at the crime scene on some of the 10 shell casings recovered. A water bottle and the clothing Tate Jr. was wearing at the time of the shooting was also recovered near the vehicle he abandoned. His DNA was also found inside Officer Huesca’s vehicle and his palm print was lifted from the fence he was seen jumping over.
Police Officer Luis M. Huesca, born April 23, 1993, received his Probationary Appointment to the Chicago Police Department on March 16, 2018. He attended the Jackson Street Police Academy and was issued Star #18913 on October 5, 2018. Officer Huesca earned 1 Department Commendation Award, 1 Unit Meritorious Award, 1 2019 Crime Reduction Award, 9 Honorable Mentions and 3 Emblems of Recognition for Physical Fitness during his career.
Officer Huesca was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He was survived by his parents: Edith and Emiliano; siblings: Emiliano, Jr. and Liliana O’Brien (Huesca).
2025 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez #8314
E.O.W. 04 November 2024
Incident and Biographic Details
Police Officer Enrique Martinez, Star #8314, aged 26 years, was a 2 year, 10 month, 9 day veteran of the Chicago Police Department, assigned to the 6th District – Gresham.
On November 4, 2024 at 8:30 p.m., Officer Martinez and his partner Police Officer Francisco Nunez #8377 were on duty working beat 622 when they attempted to conduct a traffic stop at 8040 South Ingleside Avenue. The Black 2011 Ford Escape contained three occupants; Darion McMillian, age 23, of 14523 Myrtle Avenue, Harvey, IL (Driver); Mario Chambers, age 23, of 544 East 148th Street, Harvey, IL (Front Passenger) and Kenyon Lewis, age 25, of 1227 West 96th Street (Rear Passenger). As the officers approached the vehicle McMillian began to fire at Officer Martinez striking him several times, Officer Nunez then returned fire. In the process, McMillian also shot Chambers who was seated in the front passenger seat. McMillin after firing multiple rounds in rapid succession attempted to flee the scene in the vehicle, striking an officer. The vehicle then crashed nearby into a parked car. McMillian then fled on foot. A 10-1 was called and additional responding officers arrived, securing the scene, and began the search for McMillian. Officer Martinez was transported to the University of Chicago Hospital by responding officers where he was pronounced deceased by Dr. Tataris at approximately 8:45 p.m. on November 4, 2024.
Responding officers began their search and located a witness who was able to direct officers and provide a description of McMillian. While touring the area beat 471 observed a subject matching the description given by the witness. The subject was walking south bound on Maryland Avenue approaching 81st Street. Beat 471, Police Officer Henry Capouch #4523 and Police Officer Troy Cephas #8320, detained the subject for further investigation. A show up was conducted and a positive ID was made identifying the subject as the fleeing offender. Responding officers also detained Kenyon Lewis after finding him unconscious in the back seat of the offending vehicle. Mario Chambers was also found in the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. McMillan was subsequently charged with First Degree Murder. Three firearms were recovered recovered from the vehicle and offenders in addition to cannabis and crack cocaine.
Officer Martinez was waked at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, located at 4727 W. 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL. His funeral mass was held at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, located at 7740 South Western Avenue. He was laid to rest on November 18, 2024 in Beverly Cemetery, 12000 South Kedzie Avenue, Blue Island, Illinois.
Police Officer Enrique Martinez, born May 24, 1898, received his Probationary Appointment to the Chicago Police Department on December 27, 2021, and was issued Star #8314 on June 27, 2022. He earned 1 Department Commendation, 1 Life Saving Award, the Military Service Award, 12 Honorable Mentions and 1 Emblem of Recognition for Physical Fitness during his career.
Officer Martinez was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He was survived by his fiancée, Lesly Hernandez; grandmother; parents: Adrian and Rosa (nee Mayen) and siblings: Angelica and Adrian (Mercedes) Martinez Garcia (CPD).
Honoring the Members of our Military Personnel
2024 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominees
United States Army - June 14, 1775
The U.S. Army's beginnings can be traced back to the Continental Congress's authorization of the enlistment of expert riflemen in 1775. This marked the establishment of the Continental Army, which was later renamed the United States Army. George Washington was appointed as the Commander in Chief of the Army, and the Army played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War, leading to the country's independence. The Army's evolution continued with the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, and various other conflicts, reflecting its commitment to preserving peace and security and defending the nation.
United States Navy - October 13, 1775
The birth of the United States Navy can be traced back to the Continental Congress's establishment of the Continental Navy on October 13, 1775. This marked the beginning of a naval force that would play a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and beyond. The Navy's early efforts included capturing munitions and privateering, which contributed to the American war effort and disrupted British supply lines. The Navy's development was a response to the need for a defense against the Royal Navy and the need to protect American commerce. The Navy's first official warships were the USS Alfred, USS Columbus, and USS Andrew Doria, which were small vessels but provided a symbolic presence at sea. The Navy's mission was to harass British supply lines, disrupt commerce, and provide psychological victories to boost morale.
United States Marines - November 10, 1775
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) has a rich history that dates back to its founding on November 10, 1775. The Corps was established to conduct ship-to-ship fighting, provide shipboard security, and assist in landing forces. Over the years, the Marine Corps has served in nearly every conflict in U.S. history, playing a crucial role in amphibious warfare and shaping U.S. strategy in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The Corps has been known for its rapid response to expeditionary crises and has become an important tool for U.S. foreign policy.
United States Coast Guard - August 4,1790
The United States Coast Guard's origins date back to August 4, 1790, when President George Washington signed the Tariff Act, which authorized the construction of ten vessels to enforce federal tariff and trade laws and to prevent smuggling. These vessels, known as the Revenue Cutter Service, were tasked with protecting customs revenue and preventing acts of piracy. The service evolved over the years, expanding its responsibilities and maintaining the country's aids to maritime navigation, including lighthouses. The Coast Guard's motto, "Semper Paratus," translates to "Always Ready," reflecting its commitment to readiness and service.
United States Air Force - September 18, 1947
The US Air Force began with humble beginnings, evolving from a small Aeronautical Division of the US Army Signal Corps established in 1907. This division was responsible for military ballooning and air machines. The first operational aircraft, the Wright Flyer, was accepted by the Army in 1909, marking a significant milestone in the development of air power. The Air Force's growth accelerated during World War I, when the Army Air Service was formed to provide tactical support to the Army. The Air Force's independence was solidified with the establishment of the Air Force as a separate military service in 1947, following the National Security Act of 1947.
United States Space Force - December 20, 2019
The U.S. Coast Space Force, as part of the United States Space Force, began with the establishment of the Space Force on December 20, 2019. This branch of the U.S. Armed Forces was created to focus on the space domain, which is critical for national security and economic prosperity. The Space Force's origins trace back to the military space programs initiated during the Cold War, with its first combat operations occurring during the Vietnam War. The establishment of the Space Force was a response to the growing threats from near-peer competitors in space and the need for a dedicated military service to protect and defend American interests in space.
2023 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Police Officer Ella G. French #15013
E.O.W. 07 August 2021
Incident and Biographic Details
Police Officer Ella Grace French, Star #15013, aged 29 years, was a 3 year, 3 month, 22 day veteran of the Chicago Police Department, assigned to the 10th District – Ogden and detailed to Unit 716 – Community Safety Team (CST).
On August 7, 2021, at 9:08 p.m., Officer French was on duty at 2234 West 63rd Street working with her partners Carlos A. Yanez, Jr. #16022 and Joshua Blas #14751. The officers observed n SUV with expired registration and conducted a traffic stop. The vehicle contained three occupants; Emonte Morgan, age 21, Eric Morgan, age 19 and a female, age 21. Eric Morgan was driving the car, while the female was in the passenger seat and Emonte Morgan was in the back seat. There was open alcohol in the car and the female wasn’t wearing a seatbelt. Officer French had Eric Morgan give her his car keys; he then told her he had cannabis, and French told him to get out of the car. The other officers ordered the other two to step out. Emonte Morgan exited the car with a drink in one hand and his cellphone in the other. He refused to put them down and jerked his arms away from the officer. At this point Eric Morgan fled on foot with Officer Blas giving chase. As Officer Blas pursued Eric Morgan, Officer French began to struggle with Emonte Morgan and they moved from the rear of the SUV towards the front passenger side of the car. It was at this time Emonte Morgan produced a Glock 17, 9mm, semi-automatic firearm from his waistband and shot Officer French one time at point blank range. Emonte Morgan then fired again striking Officer Yanez. At this point Officer Blas had caught Eric Morgan and was attempting to put him in handcuffs. Hearing the gunfire he stopped and returned to the scene to find Emonte Morgan standing at the rear of the car. Emonte fired at Officer Blas who then returned fire, striking Emonte Morgan, and fell to the ground. As Officer Blas stood back up he observed Eric and Emonte Morgan meet up across the street, exchange the firearm, and begin to flee the scene. Officer Blas returned to the car to locate his partners and discovered they had been shot. He immediately radioed for help and a perimeter was established. Responding officers were able to locate Emonte Morgan and Eric Morgan was tackled by two citizens as he attempted to cut through a yard. The two citizens held him down until police arrived and the firearm was also recovered nearby in the yard.
Officer French was shot once in the back of the head and was transported to the University of Chicago Hospital by responding officers where she was pronounced deceased. Officer Yanez sustained three gunshot wounds; two in the head, one round exiting the right eye and the other lodging in the back of his head, and the third round striking his right shoulder. He was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital by responding police where he was treated and later transferred to the University of Chicago Hospital and admitted to the ICU. Officer Blas was uninjured and taken to Holy Cross Hospital for observation. Emonte Morgan sustained two gunshot wounds, one in the abdomen and the other in the left bicep, and was transported to Christ Medical Center by CFD Ambulance #8.
Emonte Morgan and Eric Morgan were placed in custody and arrested at the scene. The third female offender fled the scene and made good her escape, she was later identified, located and arrested the next morning on August 8, 2021. The Glock 17 used by Emonte Morgan was recovered at the scene and inventoried. On August 9, 2021, Emonte Morgan was charged with 1 count of 1st Degree Murder, 2 counts of Attempted Murder and 1 count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a Felon. On August 9, 2021, Eric Morgan was charged with 1 count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a Felon, 1 count of Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Prior Conviction and 1 count of Obstruction of Justice. The Glock 17 was traced and it was learned that it had been obtained through a straw purchase. The weapon was purchased by Jamel Danzy, age 29, of Hammond, Indiana from a firearms dealer in the same city. Danzy then transferred that weapon to Eric Morgan knowing he was not legally able to purchase a firearm. On August 9, 2021, Danzy was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Knowingly Transferring a Firearm to an Out of State Resident and Knowingly Disposing of a Firearm for a Convicted Felon. It was also learned through investigation that the SUV the three had been driving in was registered to Danzy.
Police Officer Ella Grace French, born August 31, 1991, received her Probationary Appointment to the Chicago Police Department on April 16, 2018. She attended the Jackson Street Police Academy and was issued Star #15013 on October 26, 2018. Officer French earned 1 2019 Crime Reduction Ribbon, 15 Honorable Mentions and 1 Emblem of Recognition for Physical Fitness during her career. Prior to joining the Chicago Police Department, Officer French was a Corrections Officer for the Cook County Sheriff’s Department.
Officer French was survived by her mother, Elizabeth and brothers: Andrew, Christian, Julian and Michael.
2022 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Police Commander Paul R. Bauer #29
E.O.W. 13 February 2018
Incident and Biographic Details
Commander Paul R. Bauer, Star #29, aged 53 years, was a 31 year, 6 month, 30 day veteran of the Chicago Police Department, assigned to the 18th District – Near North.
On February 13, 2018, at approximately 1:40 p.m., a 1st District tactical team observed a suspicious subject, Shomari Legghette, at State Street and Lower Wacker Drive. In response to a shooting at 35 East Lower Wacker Drive the week prior, officers were saturating the area to combat drug sales, which sparked the shooting. The officers attempted to make contact with Legghette for a field interview when he fled on foot. A foot pursuit followed and a description of Legghette was broadcast over Zone 4 radio. The pursuing officers lost sight of Legghette at Lake and State Streets and relayed the message over the radio. One of the pursuing officers cautioned responding units to not get hurt, the offender was only wanted for a field interview.
Commander Bauer had just attended a training session within the vicinity of the Thompson Center and minutes before he was due to head to a meeting at City Hall he monitored the radio call. The Commander spotted a man matching the description of the suspect at 161 North Clark Street and gave chase across Clark Street into the Thompson Center Plaza located at 100 West Randolph Street. Commander Bauer confronted Legghette in the plaza near the top of the Food Court’s East emergency exit stairs. A struggle ensued and Legghette pulled the Commander down the stairs. Shortly after the fall Legghette produced a semi-automatic handgun with a thirty round magazine. Legghette stood over the Commander and fired seven rounds. The Commander was struck six times in the head, neck, torso, back and wrist. Legghette then attempted to make good his escape, but was arrested at the top of the staircase by responding officers. Due to the commotion, it wasn’t immediately known that the Commander was shot. An officer inspecting the staircase found him a few minutes later. His body was lying just out of sight from the top of the staircase, his weapon still holstered, and his radio and handcuffs lying next to his body. An ambulance was summoned and Commander Bauer was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
Shortly after the arrest of Legghette he was found to have been wearing a bullet proof vest and was transported to Area Central Headquarters for further investigation. Further investigation revealed Surveillance video that captured the struggle and three civilian witnesses identified Legghette in a lineup as the man who struggled with Bauer at the top of a stairwell. Legghette was charged with First Degree Murder, Possession of Less Than 15 Grams Heroin and Possession of a Firearm by Felon. During his bond hearing on February 14, 2018 Judge Mary Marubio ordered Legghette held without bond. On March 13, 2020, in under three hours a jury returned a verdict of guilty and Legghette was convicted of 1st Degree Murder. On October 28, 2020, Legghette was sentenced to life in prison by Judge Erica Reddick.
Commander Bauer was the first officer, the rank of Commander, to be killed in the line of duty. He also had a cousin, Patrolman Martin Emmett Darcy, Jr., who was also fatally shot in the line of duty on September 27, 1982.
Commander Bauer was waked at Nativity of Our Lord Church located at 653 West 37th Street. His funeral mass was also held at Nativity of Our Lord Church. He was laid to rest on February 17, 2018 in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 6001 West 111th Street, Alsip, Illinois. His grave is located in Grave 11, Lot 11, Section 18.
Commander Paul R. Bauer, born November 17, 1964, received his Probationary Appointment to the Chicago Police Department on July 14, 1986 and he attended the Jackson Street Police Academy and was issued Star #2852. He earned 1 Carter H. Harrison Medal (posthumously), 32 Honorable Mentions, 3 Attendance Recognition Awards, The 2009 Crime Reduction Award, The 2004 Crime Reduction Award, The NATO Summit Service Award, 1 Presidential Election Deployment Award, 1 Democratic Convention Service Award, 18 Complimentary Letters, 1 Appearance Award and 7 Physical Fitness Awards during his career. Commander Bauer was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1994, Lieutenant in August 2005, Captain on May 1, 2015 and to Commander on June 25, 2016. On August 12, 1994, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and issued Star #761. On December 15, 1999, he was issued Sergeant Star #2528 after Star #761 was reallocated for the Lieutenant Rank. On September 1, 2005, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and once again issued Star #761. He was promoted to the rank of Captain and issued Star #29.
Commander Bauer was survived by his wife, Erin (nee Molloy); daughter, Grace, age 13; parents, Annette and Paul and siblings, Jane (Chris) Schuleit, Pam (Andy) Howell and Sue (Frank) March.
2021 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Honors 20 year Anniversary
20 Year Anniversary of September 11 Attacks
September 11, 2001
Incident and Biographic Details
On September 11, 2001 (often called 9/11), a terrible terrorist attack happened in the United States that changed the world. Here's a really simple, broken-down explanation of what occurred step by step:
A group of 19 terrorists from the extremist organization al-Qaeda (led by Osama bin Laden) secretly boarded four big commercial airplanes on the East Coast. These planes were heading to California, so they were full of fuel.
Early morning: The hijackers took control of the planes shortly after takeoff by using small knives/box cutters to threaten or hurt crew and passengers.
8:46 a.m.: The first plane (American Airlines Flight 11) crashed straight into the North Tower of the World Trade Center (the famous Twin Towers) in New York City. At first, many people thought it was a horrible accident.
9:03 a.m.: The second plane (United Airlines Flight 175) flew into the South Tower of the World Trade Center — live on TV. Now everyone knew this was a deliberate attack.
9:37 a.m.: The third plane (American Airlines Flight 77) slammed into the Pentagon (the U.S. military headquarters) near Washington, D.C., causing a big fire and damage.
Around this time, passengers on the fourth plane (United Airlines Flight 93) learned through phone calls what was happening on the other flights. Brave passengers and crew fought back against the hijackers to stop them from reaching their likely target (probably the White House or Capitol).
9:59 a.m.: The South Tower (hit second) collapsed in a huge cloud of dust and debris after burning for about 56 minutes.
10:03 a.m.: Flight 93 crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania — no one on the ground was killed, but all aboard died.
10:28 a.m.: The North Tower (hit first) also collapsed.
In total, 2,977 people were killed (not counting the 19 hijackers), including many office workers, first responders (firefighters and police who ran in to help), and everyone on the planes. Thousands more were injured. The attacks caused massive destruction in New York and shocked the entire world.
Afterward, the U.S. started the "War on Terror," invaded Afghanistan (where al-Qaeda was based), and made big changes to airport security and intelligence. It's remembered as one of the darkest days in modern history, with memorials now at the sites to honor those who died.
2019 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Firefighter/ EMT Juan Bucio #5115
LODD May 28, 2018
Incident and Biographic Details
On Memorial Day, May 28, 2018, Juan went on a call for a person in the Chicago River on the near southside. He jumped from the CFD helicopter to search for the missing person as he had done many times before. Due to no fault of his own, Juan lost his life in the river during that rescue attempt. Juan is survived by his loving sons, Jacob and Joshua, and his eight siblings. He will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him and will never forget him, as he gave his all to the city and people he loved.
Juan Bucio was born January 25, 1972, to Magdalena and Leodegario Bucio in Mexico. The family came to the United States in search of a better life. Juan quickly learned English from schooling and watching cartoons.
Juan’s service to the people of Chicago began as a pool and beach lifeguard when he was a teenager. His desire to serve his city continued as he became a Chicago Police Officer, entering the Chicago Police Academy in 2000. He served as a patrol officer in the 18th District for three years before accepting an offer of employment from the Chicago Fire Department, where he graduated from the Fire Academy in March of 2004 with his first assignment on Truck 6 downtown.
His work ethic was admired so much, he was asked to join CFD Air-Sea rescue as a diver in 2007. Juan loved that assignment as a natural extension of his love of swimming and diving. He trained and worked hard to become the best rescue diver on CFD, while balancing a family with two young sons, Joshua and Jacob.
Juan was an amazing father. He cherished Jacob and Joshua. Juan was one of the kindest and most selfless of men. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it, on duty or off.
2018 Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5K Run Nominee
Chicago Police Officer Benjamin Perez #12225
E.O.W. 18 September 2002
Incident and Biographic Details
Patrolman Benjamin Perez, Star #12225, aged 32 years, was a 5 year, 10 month, 28 day veteran of the Chicago Police Department, assigned to the 10th District – Marquette.
On September 18, 2002, at 6:31 p.m., Officer Benjamin Perez, and his partner, Police Officer Ron Zuniga, received information about a narcotics transaction occurring near the Burlington Northern-Sante Fe railroad tracks, located on the 2100 block of South Spaulding Avenue. The officers climbed over a train embankment and were conducting surveillance from a railroad trestle. As they watched for illegal activity, a Metra commuter train traveling at a high rate of speed was headed in their direction. Officer Perez and his partner cleared the train tracks before the train passed, but the engine of the train created a vacuum and sucked Officer Perez under the train. Officer Perez’s partner was able to jump to safety. In a twisted fate of coincidence, Officer Perez’s sister, Hermelinda Alvarez, was aboard the train and heard the conductor announce there was an accident and that someone was hit. She couldn’t have known it was her brother, but he came to her mind. In a news article she related, “I heard it was a police officer. Instantly I thought of my brother. But why in the world would it be him?” She left the scene and went to her Berwyn, Illinois home later that night and learned of the news.
Officer Perez was waked at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home located at 4727 West 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, Illinois. His funeral mass was held at St. Daniel the Prophet Church located at 5330 South Nashville Avenue. He was laid to rest on September 23, 2002 in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 7201 Archer Avenue, Justice, Illinois. His grave is located in Grave 1, Lot 23, Block F, Section 66.
Patrolman Benjamin Perez, born March 30, 1970, received his Probationary Appointment to the Chicago Police Department on October 26, 1998. He earned 16 Honorable Mentions and 2 Physical Fitness Awards during his career.
Officer Perez was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He was survived by his wife, Michele Erica (nee Vinyard), age 28; children: Benjamin Nicolas age 21 months, Katarina, age 9 and Rebecca Elisa, age 5 months; parents: Angel and Catalina and siblings: Andrea (Misael) Villegas, Elena, Guillermina Villegas, Hermelinda (Jesus) Alvarez and Jose.
Incident Recorded Under Chicago Police Department RD #HH656849.
On May 24, 2005, Officer Perez’s star was retired by Superintendent Philip J. Cline and enshrined in the Superintendent’s Honored Star Case, located in the lobby at Chicago Police Headquarters, 3510 South Michigan Avenue.