Ruby Falcon, a 31-year-old female probationary officer with the Chicago Police Department, tragically died on July 30, 2016. Her death was ruled a suicide. Falcon took her own life using a fellow officer's weapon at the home of Officer Danielle Deering. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning after a night of socializing at two Chicago-area bars.
Falcon's death raised several questions and led to a wrongful-death lawsuit filed by her mother, Francisca Falcon, against the City of Chicago, Officer Deering, and the owners of the two bars where Falcon and Deering had been drinking. The lawsuit alleged negligence and battery, claiming that Deering failed to properly secure her firearm and that the bars served alcohol to Falcon despite her intoxication. However, a federal judge ruled in favor of the defendants, stating that there was insufficient evidence to prove that Falcon's death was anything other than a suicide.
The case highlighted issues within the Chicago Police Department regarding mental health support and the handling of firearms by off-duty officers. Falcon had reportedly been struggling with personal issues, including financial troubles and a recent traumatic event involving a former romantic partner who had been charged with attempted murder for attacking her.
Despite the tragic circumstances, the legal proceedings concluded without any arrests or convictions related to Falcon's death. The case remains a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support within law enforcement agencies.
