Bloomingdale Police Officer Killed in Line of Duty Thursday Night: Cops

A 27-year-old Bloomingdale police officer was killed in a crash while responding to a work call Thursday night, officials have announced.

Raymond Murrell was on duty at the time of his death, NBC Chicago reported, and on his way to investigate a possible retail theft in progress. His unmarked SUV crashed into a pole near Army Trail Road and Cardinal Avenue around 9:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Police Chief Frank Giammarese called Murrell a “shining star,” though he was young and had only logged a year with the department. Just months ago, Murrell received a commendation for saving someone’s life when they were having a heart attack.

More than 1,200 people have already “liked” a Facebook post the Bloomingdale Police Department wrote Friday morning commemorating Murrell.

“With only a short time on as a Police Officer, he had already made his mark in our profession and within our community,” the post reads.

Hundreds of comments poured in within an hour of the post going live.

“My heart breaks for the family and Bloomingdale PD,” one commenter wrote. “Thoughts and prayers are with them on this tragic day. Thank you, Officer Murrell, for your service.”

The Fraternal Order of Police issued several statements Friday afternoon lauding Murrell for his service.

"Raymond knew the danger that all law enforcement officials willingly face every day when they put on the badge and go out to protect and serve all of us," said FOP Labor Council Assistant Executive Director Shawn Roselieb. “Raymond's loss while selflessly performing his duty exemplifies what Abraham Lincoln called 'the last full measure of devotion.' His sacrifice is an inspiration to all of us, and he will be deeply missed.”

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Photo via Facebook/Bloomingdale PD