Luis M. Huesca
Luis M. Huesca (23rd April 1993 – 21st April 2024) was a dedicated officer of the Chicago Police Department whose life was tragically cut short in the line of duty. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, known for his compassion, bravery, and integrity.
Personal Life
Luis M. Huesca was born on the 23rd of April 1993, in the Avondale area of Chicago, Illinois. He spent his childhood in Bolingbrook, attending Plainfield East High School before returning to the Pilsen area with his family. Luis pursued higher education at the University of Illinois at Chicago, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
Luis had a zest for life and a deep curiosity about the world. He embraced different cultures through travel, learning local languages, and indulging in diverse cuisines. Despite life's challenges, Luis approached each day with an infectious smile and a playful spirit, embodying kindness and compassion in all his interactions.
Career
Although Luis initially aspired to become a chef and own his own business due to his passion for cooking, his desire to serve and protect others led him to pursue a career in law enforcement. He joined the Chicago Police Department, where he served with distinction for six years. Luis was driven by a commitment to making a positive impact on his community, particularly in guiding young people toward a path of hope and opportunity.
Incident
On the 21st of April 2024, Officer Luis Huesca was fatally shot while returning home from his shift in the 5500 block of South Kedzie Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Huesca, a six-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department, was just two days away from his 31st birthday at the time of his death. The incident sent shockwaves through the community and law enforcement agencies alike.
Arrest of Suspect
Following a multi-state manhunt, Xavier Tate Jr., 22, was apprehended on Wednesday in Glendale Heights, a suburb west of Chicago. Tate was charged with first-degree murder, aggravated vehicular hijacking, and possession of a stolen firearm. Police alleged that Tate took Huesca's service weapon after killing him and fled the scene in Huesca's car.
Investigation Details
The arrest of Tate was aided by various pieces of evidence, including DNA and fingerprint evidence, as well as video surveillance footage. Video evidence collected from over 90 locations after Huesca's death played a crucial role in tracking down the suspect. Detectives were able to trace Tate's movements to a business where he purchased a bottle of water using a relative's bank card. This bottle, along with clothing worn by Tate at the time of the shooting, was found near Huesca's stolen vehicle. Furthermore, Tate's DNA was discovered in the vehicle, and his fingerprints were identified on a fence he had jumped over after the shooting.
Additionally, police followed leads suggesting that Tate may have fled to Wisconsin or Iowa after the shooting before ultimately locating him in Glendale Heights, Illinois. Tate's whereabouts were further pinpointed with the assistance of a relative, Caschaus Tate, who was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon for disposing of Huesca's gun.
Impact
The tragic death of Officer Luis Huesca has left a profound impact on the city of Chicago and the law enforcement community. Mayor Brandon Johnson described Huesca's death as a "tragic loss," while emphasising the city's commitment to bringing justice to the Huesca family. Huesca's family members expressed their grief and relief at the arrest of the suspect, emphasising Huesca's dedication to his work and his forgiving nature.
Survived By
Luis M. Huesca is survived by:
- Parents: Edith and Emiliano Huesca
- Siblings: Emiliano Huesca Jr., Liliana (James) O’Brien
- Nieces and Nephews: Owen, Olivia, and Isabella O’Brien
- Best Friend: Christian Calderon
