"I am heartsick as we mourn the passing of beloved Chicago Police Officer Paul Escamilla. As a member of a CPD family and a 17-year veteran of the Department, he most recently served in the Rogers Park neighborhood where he was revered by his fellow officers and community members. Officer Escamilla earned more than 120 awards for his service, but the number of people he impacted is the true measure of his devotion, and that cannot be quantified. Our entire city offers our condolences to his wife, children, extended family, friends and CPD colleagues—and we mourn with them.

"No one should feel they are alone or think they have nowhere to turn, especially our first responders. From the moment they put on their uniform, they answer a call that at any second may put their lives in danger or inflict trauma. That is why we, as a city, have an obligation to constantly strengthen the support network they have, and strive to end any negative perception of reaching out for help. Chicago’s first responders deserve nothing less."