Man charged in murder of Chicago police officer
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Latest updates from Friday’s hearing here.
CHICAGO — Xavier L. Tate, 22, was charged Thursday with first-degree murder in connection with the fatal shooting of Chicago Police Department Officer Luis Huesca.
Tate was taken into custody Wednesday, according to police. On Thursday police and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office announced he has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated vehicular hijacking and possession of a stolen firearm.
Tate, of Aurora, was arrested by members of the U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force on Wednesday evening at an apartment complex in Glendale Heights, according to the Chicago Police Department.
He is due in court on Friday for a detention hearing.
Ald. Brian Hopkins said Tate spent time in Dubuque, Iowa.
Huesca was shot multiple times on April 21 in the 3100 block of West 56th Street in Chicago’s Gage Park neighborhood as he came home from a shift.
He died in uniform, and his death is considered in the line of duty, which allows his family to collect survivors’ benefits.
Days later, police released videos of a man they believe is Tate, capturing him inside two convenience stores and walking down the street near where Huesca’s shooting happened.
Police issued an arrest warrant for Tate. The FBI placed him on its Most Wanted list, with a reward adding up to $100,000 for information leading to his arrest.
“The investigation continues, and no further information is available at this time,” the Chicago Police Department said in a statement. “We ask that the people of this city continue to support the Huesca family by keeping them in your prayers as they continue to mourn the loss of a beloved son, brother and uncle.”
Funeral services were held for Huesca on Monday.
On Thursday evening, Huesca’s family, released the following statement on behalf of the family.
As we confront a new chapter in the tragedy that began nearly two weeks ago with the murder of Officer Luis Huesca, we are profoundly grateful to the community for their overwhelming support and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. The warmth and solidarity shown by so many have provided essential comfort in the face of such a devastating loss.
We extend our immense gratitude to the men and women of the Chicago Police Department for their unwavering support and dedication to our family, with special recognition to Superintendent Larry Snelling, Chief Antoinette Ursitti, and Chicago FOP President John Catanzara for their exceptional support during our darkest hours.
We also commend the U.S. Marshals and other law enforcement agencies for their tireless efforts. Their relentless dedication fuels our hope for swift justice for Officer Huesca.
As we place our trust in the justice system for a thorough and just resolution, the potential for lenient pre-trial release conditions that might allow a heinous murderer to walk free is deeply troubling. The vile nature of this crime and its devastating impact on our family and the community demand uncompromising pursuit of justice.
While no measure of justice can bring Officer Huesca back or fully heal our hearts, we take solace in his enduring legacy of service and bravery. Thank you all for honoring the memory of Officer Luis Huesca.
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