NewsChicago Sun-TimesJuly 17, 2026United States
Internal records show Chicago police failed to supervise officer before fatal shooting of partner
Records reveal that Chicago Police Officer Carlos Baker was recommended for a non-disciplinary supervision program weeks before he fatally shot his partner, Krystal Rivera, but the referral was ignored by internal staff. Despite a history of disciplinary complaints, Baker remained on a high-stress tactical team, leading to a lawsuit from Rivera's family.
Read the full story at Chicago Sun-TimesWhy It Matters
The failure to enroll Officer Baker in the meant he continued working on a without the mandatory oversight, mental health evaluations, or reassignment options that could have been triggered by the program.
Key Facts
- Internal Affairs recommended enrolling Carlos Baker in the Personnel Concerns Program on May 14, 2025.
- The recommendation was ignored after an internal email went unanswered by supervisors.
- Baker was not enrolled in the program prior to the fatal shooting of Krystal Rivera on June 5, 2025.
- The Personnel Concerns Program allows for intense supervision, mental health evaluations, and reassignment of officers.
- Baker fatally shot Rivera while chasing a suspect in the 8200 block of South Drexel Avenue.
- Baker had less than four years of experience at the time of the shooting.
- Baker had a history of disciplinary complaints, including cursing at a supervisor and disobeying orders in 2024.
- Baker previously led an 85 mph vehicle chase without lights or sirens that resulted in a multi-vehicle crash.
- Baker was nominated for the tactical team by District Commander Michael Tate despite his disciplinary record.
- Rivera's family has filed a lawsuit against Baker and the city of Chicago.
- Body camera footage shows Baker took cover in a stairwell for 90 seconds after the shooting before attempting to assist Rivera.
- Baker had been in a romantic relationship with Rivera according to her family.
Who's Mentioned
personAntonio Romanucci“Attorney representing the family of Krystal Rivera.”personMichael Tate“District commander who nominated Baker for the tactical team.”organizationChicago Police Department“The law enforcement agency employing Baker and Rivera.”organizationCivilian Office of Police Accountability“Agency investigating the shooting of Krystal Rivera.”organizationIllinois Answers Project“News organization that obtained the records.”personKrystal Rivera“Chicago Police Officer fatally shot by her partner, Carlos Baker.”personCarlos Baker“Chicago Police Officer involved in the fatal shooting of his partner.”personLarry Snelling“Former Chicago Police Superintendent.”organizationChicago Sun-Times“News organization that obtained the records.”