Chicago Police Officer Alejandro Valadez came from a family of police officers. His brother, sister and fiancee all serve and protect.
But on Saturday, alongside those closest to Valadez, stood strangers and more than 3,000 police officers who came to Chicago's St. Bede the Venerable Catholic Church to honor the service adn life of the 27-year-old decorated officer from the 7th District.
Valadez was killed in the line of duty Monday while responding to a call. His fiancee, Christina, is pregnant with their son.
"I'm going to be there for your son. Our boys are going to grow up together, said Officer and partner Thomas Vargas during his eulogy. "I am here for your family."
"We all knew him and loved him," said Commander Keith Calloway, who worked with Valadez in the high crime area of Englewood. "It's a huge loss to all of us in the city."
Police Superintendent Jody Weis said in his short lifetime, Valadez made a great impact. He was 3-year officer known as the go-to guy in his district.
Two known gang members have been charged with first-degree murder for Valadez's death.
