**Chicago Officer Krystal Rivera Killed by Friendly Fire During Confrontation with Armed Suspect**

Chicago police Officer Krystal Rivera was tragically killed on Thursday after being mistakenly shot by a fellow officer during a confrontation with an armed suspect, the Chicago Police Department confirmed on Friday. The department's statement revealed that an investigation determined Rivera was struck by friendly fire, with only the officer's weapon being discharged during the incident.

In a devastating turn of events, Rivera, 36, who had served the department for four years and resided in the Irving Park neighborhood, lost her life when the tactical team she was a part of attempted to stop a suspect believed to be armed. This fatal encounter occurred around 9:50 p.m. in the 8200 block of South Drexel Avenue.

Police Superintendent Larry Snelling lamented the loss, describing Rivera as a dedicated and hardworking officer committed to making Chicago safer. During her final shift, she had successfully removed two guns from the streets, a testament to her dedication and bravery. Rivera's untimely death marked the first instance of a Chicago police officer killed in the line of duty in 2023.

The confrontation began when officers tried to stop a person thought to have a weapon, who then fled into an apartment. Following the suspect, the officers encountered another individual armed with a rifle. In the ensuing chaos, an officer discharged his weapon, accidentally striking Rivera, who was later pronounced dead at University of Chicago Medical Center. An autopsy revealed she had been shot in the back.

Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with city and state officials, joined Snelling in mourning Rivera's loss, praising her unmatched work ethic and devotion to her role. Johnson emphasized the profound impact on Rivera's young daughter, who now faces a future without her mother.

The aftermath of the shooting saw the arrest of the individuals in the apartment, though specific details about their involvement were not provided. A third officer sustained a wrist injury and was reported to be in fair condition. Investigations by the Civilian Office of Police Accountability continue, with further details pending.

In a harrowing sequence during the rush to get medical help for Rivera, the squad car transporting her malfunctioned and caught fire, requiring another vehicle to complete the trip to the hospital. Despite these efforts, the loss of Officer Rivera has left a significant void in the community she served.

The Chicago police community and city officials have called for prayers and support for Rivera's grieving family, particularly her daughter, as they navigate this profound loss. The investigation into the incident continues, with many seeking justice and answers for the events that unfolded that fateful night.