Holly MatkinChicago, IL – Chicago Police Department (CPD) Sergeant Andrew Dobda died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on July 17.
The 47-year-old, off-duty sergeant was found suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on July 16 and was rushed to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he passed away the following day, CPD Spokesperson Tom Ahern told the Chicago Sun-Times.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a suicide.
“The Chicago Police Department is mourning the loss of the off-duty sergeant who succumbed to his injuries today,” the CPD said in a statement to the Chicago Sun-Times. “We ask that the city wrap its arms around this sergeant’s loved ones as they mourn his loss.”
“Please also take a moment to pray for the men and women of CPD, who are grieving alongside this sergeant’s family,” the department added.
Sgt. Dobda, an 18-year veteran of the department, was the third CPD officer to die by suicide in just two weeks, the Chicago Patch reported.
“They were sons, daughters, siblings, partners, friends, and mentors,” CPD Superintendent David Brown said. “As a department, we ask for the city’s continued support and prayers, especially for our member’s families, friends, and those who knew and worked with them.”
“Each of their losses is a tragedy that impacts a family, a department, and the City of Chicago,” Superintendent Brown added, according to the Chicago Patch. “As we continue to grieve, I know there will be tough days ahead.”
In addition to his role as a law enforcement officer, Sgt. Dobda was also a Chicago Police Department Sergeants Union board member, according to his obituary.
He leaves behind his wife, Carla, as well as his parents, in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.
Sgt. Dobda was laid to rest on July 23.
Services for Andrew J Dobda, Jr:
Visitation: Friday, July 22, 2-9pm
Funeral: Saturday, July 23, 9:15am
Elmwood Chapel 11200 S Ewing Ave to Christ Our Light Church (formerly St. Florian Church)
Mass of Christian Burial: 10am
Entombment: Holy Cross Mausoleumhttps://t.co/FVvZYIS9iO pic.twitter.com/uvrM8Kz5BL— Michael Carroll (@Carroll46) July 19, 2022
It is with heavy hearts💔 that we bring you the bad new that
Chicago Police Officer, Sgt Andrew Dobda has succumb to his gun shot injury.
Please continue to pray for his family both and Blue💙 and Blood❤ as they mourn over the loss of our Fallen Heroe. https://t.co/yPpDU4r0YB pic.twitter.com/BwdM2QrBJ1— ChiCook Officers (@CookOfficer) July 18, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Chicago Police Department Sergeant Andrew Dobda, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
