Metra News Release

News Release

METRA OFFERS $25,000 FOR INFORMATION IN OFFICER'S DEATH

Chicago, Sept. 28, 2006 - Metra is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the shooting death of Metra Police Officer Thomas Cook.
Officer Cook, 43, was fatally shot while on duty Wednesday evening, Sept. 27, at the Metra Electric District line station located at 147th and Clinton Streets in south suburban Harvey.
The incident remains under investigation by the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force. All inquires about the investigation should be directed to the task force.
A four-year veteran of the commuter railroad's police force, Officer Cook had worked for the Riverdale police department from 1994 until joining Metra in 2003. He is the first Metra police officer to be killed in the line of duty.
"We are outraged and deeply saddened by this incident and our hearts go out to Officer Cook's family and colleagues," said Metra Executive Director Philip A. Pagano. "We hope this reward will assist in the investigation and encourage anyone who might have any information whatsoever to come forward immediately."
Anyone with information about Wednesday's incident is asked to call Metra Police at (312) 322-2800.
Metra officials also would like to acknowledge and thank representatives from police departments around the Chicago area and across the country that have called to offer condolences and assistance.
Officer Cook is survived by his wife and two children. Funeral arrangements are pending.