Melissa Torres Chicago IL Obituary: CPD Officer Died by Suicide Identified as a Loving Colleague

 

Melissa Torres Chicago IL Obituary – Chicago Police Officer Melissa Torres Dies by Apparent Suicide at 18th District Station

CHICAGO — The Chicago Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its own following the tragic death of Officer Melissa Torres, who died by apparent suicide early Thursday morning inside the 18th District police station on the city’s Near North Side.

The incident occurred at approximately 2 a.m. at the station located at 1160 N. Larrabee Street, prompting an immediate emergency response. According to police sources, Officer Torres, who was off-duty at the time, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the station. A death investigation is currently underway.

In the early morning hours, emergency responders, including paramedics and police personnel, were seen arriving at the station. Photos and video footage captured the somber scene, including emergency crews removing a stretcher from the building and officers lining the sidewalk in silent salute — a gesture typically reserved for fallen members of the force.

By 5 a.m., streets near the station had reopened to traffic, though the 18th District station itself remains closed for service as the investigation continues. Nearby police districts are temporarily handling calls and service within the 18th District.

Shortly after the incident, a procession was held as Officer Torres’ body was transported from Northwestern Memorial Hospital to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office. A large presence of more than a dozen CPD squad cars was seen outside the hospital in Streeterville, with some streets temporarily blocked off in a display of honor and respect.

The Chicago Police Department released a heartfelt statement in the wake of the tragedy:

“The Chicago Police Department is mourning the tragic loss of an officer within the 18th District station. Our officers are human, and we cannot forget that they face the same challenges as everyone else while balancing the difficulties that come with being a police officer. We ask the public to keep this officer’s family and her fellow officers in your prayers as we grieve this unimaginable loss.”

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also issued a statement, offering his condolences and acknowledging the emotional toll police work can take:

“Our hearts are shattered and broken over this tragedy. My deepest condolences and ardent prayers are with the officer’s family, loved ones, and fellow officers as we grieve. This tragedy is a reminder that we must carry each other. Every single day, our officers witness traumatic scenes, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the support they need to navigate that reality.”

Officer Melissa Torres is remembered by colleagues as a dedicated and compassionate public servant who made a meaningful impact in her community. Her death marks a heartbreaking moment for the Chicago Police Department, which has seen several suicides among officers in recent years — underscoring a growing concern for the mental health of those in law enforcement.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available.
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor through the Crisis Text Line.

Officer Melissa Torres Badge #24434, was a Hispanic female. Was an Police Officer at 25th Precinct since September 2024 and also served at US Open Tennis Detail
Service started February 2021. Funeral arrangements and memorial will be released soon…