Chicago City Wire

A benefit for the family of slain Chicago police officer Aréanah Preston will be held Wednesday, May 17. 

The benefit will be held at the Local 130 Plumbers Union Hall at 1340 W. Washington Blvd. in Chicago. Donations are appreciated. The benefit will include raffles, a 50/50, and a silent auction. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. 

Proceeds will go toward the family of Preston, who police say was targeted and killed by four teenagers as part of a three-hour crime spree that terrorized parts of Chicago. Preston, a 24-year-old who was about to graduate with a master’s degree from Loyola University was gunned down near her Avalon Park home on May 6.

“She was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend who wanted to make a difference in this world," interim Chicago Police Superintendent Eric Carter said of Preston. "Those who knew her would tell you that's exactly what she did. She wanted to create a better future for Chicago but the incomprehensible actions of these four offenders took that future from her and the loss to the City of Chicago is tremendous."

Preston returned fire after being ambushed but was shot twice in the incident, according to Fox 32. Police say the suspects targeted her near her Avalon Park home where she had finished a shift. Her weapon was stolen as well.

The Chicago Police Department announced charges for four teenagers in the murder of Preston. 

“Today, charges were announced in the tragic murder of Officer Aréanah Preston. Trevell Breeland, 19; Joseph Brooks, 19, Jakwon Buchanan, 18; and a 16-year-old juvenile have all been charged with first-degree murder,” the Chicago Police Department said in a Facebook post. “These individuals were connected to multiple robberies & a motor vehicle theft earlier that morning leading up to the murder of Officer Preston. Additional charges include armed robbery, arson, burglary, possession of a stolen vehicle, & unlawful use of a weapon.”