Arèanah Preston: Off-Duty Chicago Officer Fatally Shot In Violent Robbery
Areanah Preston, a 24-year-old Chicago police officer, was set to graduate from law school on May 13. She was shot and killed on May 6 in front of her home on Chicago’s south side.
The rule of law was important to 24-year-old Areanah Preston, a Illinois law student who had joined the Chicago Police Department to make a difference.
Preston was set to graduate from Loyola University with a master’s degree in criminology on May 13. On May 6, she was shot to death during a robbery that took place in front of her home in Chicago’s Avalon Park neighborhood. Preston was found about 1:42 a.m. by responding officers laying down in her front yard, according to news reports.
"The officer picked her up, put her in the back of his car, and immediately brought her to U of C hospital where she succumbed to her injuries early this morning," said Interim Police Supt. Eric Carter told reporters.
The Cook County Medical Examiner confirmed that Preston, who had just finished her work shift when she arrived home, died from multiple gunshot wounds. She had been with Chicago PD for three years.
Education was important to Preston. She graduated high school at UIC College Prep, then earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and law enforcement administration at Illinois State University.
"She always had something funny to say and was guaranteed to pass on her infectious smile," former police Capt. Saadia Carter said of Preston. "She did not deserve this!"
"I’m outraged and devastated by this horrific violence against a public servant and will do everything to support the family and CPD during this traumatic time," said Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson in a statement.
Police said several persons of interest have been detained by the department as a homicide investigation continues to move forward.
Preston’s slaying is considered an on-duty event, which entitles her survivors to benefits, according to media reports.RELATED ARTICLES
