Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez was tragically killed in an ambush by a gang member armed with a Glock handgun illegally modified for automatic fire, often referred to as a “switch.”

The suspect, who had previously evaded prosecution in past cases, was on an ankle monitor at the time of the murder, yet still managed to remain active on the streets.

The suspect’s ability to evade prosecution and the circumstances surrounding his release have raised significant concerns within the community and law enforcement alike.

Officer Martinez’s death marks a devastating moment for Chicago, shedding light on the critical challenges facing police and public safety amid ongoing struggles with violent crime.

The tragic incident unfolded around 8 p.m. on Monday in the 8000 block of South Ingleside Avenue.

According to Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, the incident began when officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with three occupants inside, though Snelling did not specify the reason for the stop during his early Tuesday press conference.

As the officers approached the vehicle, one of the occupants opened fire, unleashing what sounded like “rapid fire,” Snelling reported.

Officer Enrique Martinez, 26, was struck multiple times during the attack, sustaining fatal injuries. Another occupant within the vehicle was also hit multiple times and later pronounced dead.

In response, at least one officer returned fire.

The suspect who had initially fired at the officers then attempted to flee the scene, striking another officer in the process.

After abandoning the vehicle, the gunman fled on foot but was soon apprehended by police.

A third occupant of the vehicle was also detained.

During the briefing, Superintendent Snelling addressed a question regarding one of the vehicle occupants and an ankle monitor.

“I can confirm that, yes,” Snelling said. “It’s under investigation, but we have information indicating that the monitor was removed.”

Following the shooting, fellow officers rushed Martinez to a nearby hospital, but tragically, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office officially identified Officer Martinez as the fallen officer on Tuesday morning.

The case has reignited discussions about monitoring individuals with violent criminal histories and the challenges officers face in high-risk encounters.