William Betancourt dies in fatal Chicago, Illinois death

William Betancourt dies in fatal Chicago, Illinois death

Fatal Chicago, Illinois death of William Betancourt – Obituary

William Betancourt, 60, a longtime Chicago Police Department deputy chief, passed away early Saturday following a medical emergency while off duty, according to Chicago police officials. His sudden death has prompted an outpouring of grief across the department and city leadership.

Police Superintendent Larry Snelling described the loss as deeply painful, noting that Betancourt represented the highest standards of public service and leadership. In a message circulated internally, Snelling said Betancourt devoted his career to serving the city and consistently improved every role he held, from patrol officer to deputy chief.

Betancourt previously commanded the Ogden District on Chicago’s West Side and was widely known for his firm leadership style. In 2025, he drew attention after issuing a directive emphasizing professional appearance standards among officers, including uniform requirements and grooming expectations.

He also served as a department spokesperson during several high-profile incidents. In October 2023, Betancourt addressed the media following a mass shooting at an unsanctioned Halloween gathering that left 15 people wounded. Earlier that same year, while leading the Ogden District, he was involved in overseeing the relocation of immigrants housed at a police station amid an investigation into alleged misconduct.

Colleagues said Betancourt’s impact on the department was lasting, and his absence will be strongly felt. Chicago police officials have not released additional details regarding the medical emergency that led to his death.