Gregory Ray Edwards, a 27-year-old African American male, was a probationary patrolman with the Chicago Police Department. On September 29, 1987, while off duty, he was tragically killed during an armed robbery at the Roberts Motel located at 6625 South Dr. Martin Luther King Drive in Chicago, Illinois. Edwards had been with the police department for just over a year, having received his probationary appointment on August 11, 1986.
He was assigned to the Bureau of Staff Services – Education and Training Division and was detailed to the 3rd District – Grand Crossing.
On the night of his death, Edwards was on furlough and staying at the motel when Marvin Wright, a 24-year-old male, attempted to rob the occupants to obtain money for a drug deal. Edwards, who was in his room on the first floor, heard banging at the door and the door knob turning. When he opened the door, he encountered Wright, and a struggle ensued. Edwards identified himself as a police officer, but during the altercation, he was shot in the head and chest. He was transported to the University of Chicago’s Bernard Mitchell Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Marvin Wright was apprehended by responding officers hiding inside a garage near the scene of the murder. He was arrested and charged with the murder of Gregory Ray Edwards. The case against Wright proceeded through the legal system, and he faced charges related to the armed robbery and the fatal shooting of Edwards. The incident highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, even when off duty, and underscored the risks associated with violent crime in the city.
Gregory Ray Edwards was honored posthumously for his service and sacrifice. He was laid to rest on October 2, 1987, at Washington Memorial Cemetery in Homewood, Illinois. During his brief career, he had earned one Department Commendation and 22 Honorable Mentions. Edwards had also served in the Armed Forces from 1979 to 1980 and was honorably discharged. His death was a significant loss to the Chicago Police Department and the community he served.
