Police Officer Aréanah M. Preston

Police Officer Aréanah M. Preston

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Saturday, May 6, 2023

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Aréanah M. Preston

Police Officer Aréanah Preston was shot and killed during an attempted robbery at 8157 South Blackstone Avenue in Chicago at about 1:40 am.

She had finished her shift and was returning home when armed subjects confronted her, attempting to rob her. She was able to draw her weapon and exchanged shots with multiple subjects before being mortally wounded. The subjects stole her gun and fled the scene.

An officer who was responding to a nearby crash discovered Officer Preston on the ground. The officer rendered aid and transported her to a local hospital in a patrol car.

Five suspects, including one juvenile, were arrested the following day. Four of the subjects were charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, arson, burglary, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

Officer Preston had served with the Chicago Police Department for 2-1/2 years and was assigned to the Fifth District. She is survived by her mother, father, and twin sibling.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour 2 years, 6 months
  • Badge 15870

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Charged with murder

robbery, off duty, juvenile offender

Most Recent Reflection

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Lord God of unfailing love, to those families in our beloved nation, the United States of America, who are suffering in the wake of the loss of a law enforcement family member, help us to provide support. Allow us to be their rock and fortress in a time of immense pain and uncertainty. Help us to keep them safe and nourished in their time of grief, suffering beside them as we move toward healing and reconciliation. Lord God, in Your compassionate mercy, hear my prayer. In Christ Jesus, Your beloved Son, and by His authority, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” [Matthew 5:4 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
“Honoring America’s Fallen Peace Officers”
Merrimack, NH 03054

Captain Steven R. Closs (Ret.)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

November 19, 2023

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