Lemont, IL – Joliet Police Officer Daniel Rupp died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Sep. 4.

According to the medical examiner’s office and forest preserve police, Officer Rupp, 33, was pronounced dead at the Cook County Forest Preserve Sag Valley Equestrian parking lot at approximately 3 p.m., The Herald-News reported.

His body was discovered inside his personal vehicle, and a handgun was found nearby.

Officer Rupp was off-duty at the time of his death.

An autopsy determined Officer Rupp was killed by a single gunshot wound to the head, and his death was ruled a suicide, the Joliet Patch reported.

"It is with deep sadness that I announce the untimely death of officer Daniel Rupp," the Joliet Police Department said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and family."

According to Joliet Interim Police Chief Al Roechner, Officer Rupp had been with the department for nearly 12 years.

“This is the worst kind of thing you want to go through as a chief – an officer passing,” Chief Roechner told The Herald-News.

Officer Rupp’s friends and family described him as a “beloved husband” and “devoted father” who enjoyed traveling the world and taking care of his family, according to his obituary.

“Dan will forever be remembered as a witty, kind, intelligent, genuine person. He enjoyed travel and with equal measure enjoyed cooking delicious food for his family,” his obituary read.

Officer Rupp leaves behind his wife, Melissa, and their young daughter, Delilah.

“He was the most caring and tender husband and father. We will forever cherish his memory,” his obituary read. “Daniel will be greatly missed by his family, friends and fellow officers.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Joliet Police Officer Daniel Rupp, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.