Feds, CPD union increase reward to $35K for slain OEMC dispatcher Natalie Rodriguez
City and federal officials have increased a reward to $35,000 for information leading to the arrest after”hard working” and “dedicated” Office of Emergency Management and Communications dispatcher Natalie Rodriguez, was fatally shot last month in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.
Rodriguez, 50, was driving in the 4500 block of South Wood Street on Sept. 11 when she was struck by gunfire multiple times, causing her to crash into a parked SUV, Chicago police and the Cook County Crime Stoppers said. She was taken to Stroger Hospital where she died, police said.
The Cook County Crime Stoppers initially offered a $10,000 reward but now the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has added $20,000 and Chicago FOP Lodge #7, the union for rank-and-file Chicago cops, added another $5,000, according to a statement from Crime Stoppers.
A press conference is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Friday in the 4500 block of South Wood Street to encourage anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has information about the person(s) responsible to come forward, according to Crime Stoppers.
In a statement shortly after the attack, Mary May, of the OEMC, said Rodriguez was a hard worker, and a long-time “dedicated” staffer and extended their “deepest condolences” to her family.
“Throughout her decade of service to this department, Natalia was a close colleague and friend to many who worked alongside her throughout the years,” May said in the statement.
“Professionally, she was a hard worker and dedicated call taker. Natalia’s passing is a terrible loss to her family and to OEMC,” the statement concluded. “Her contributions to 9-1-1 Operations and the City of Chicago will not be forgotten.”
Tipsters can remain completely anonymous, according to Crime Stoppers. No name is required, and individuals submitting information will receive a code number that can be used to claim an approved reward.
Submit a tip to: Cook County Crime Stoppers Tip Line: 1-800-535-STOP (7867)
Online: www.CPDTIP.com
