Fallen Chicago Police Officer Andrés Vásquez Lasso honored with street sign dedication in West Lawn

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Fallen Chicago police officer André Vásquez Lasso had a street named after him on Saturday.

Friday marked one year since Officer Vásquez Lasso's death in the line of duty.

The street sign dedication ceremony took place at noon at the corner of Marquette Road and Lawndale Avenue in West Lawn on the city's Southwest Side. A flag waved in the wind as officers saluted below.

"He had a bright future ahead of him, and left an indelible mark on the lives of many people," Vásquez Lasso's cousin Jhon Vásquez said.

Neighbors and dozens of fellow police officers attended, all wrapping their arms around the Vásquez family.

His mother, Rocio Lasso, spoke in Spanish.

"It's been a very hard year," she said. "But my son has left a legacy and a message to the police and community that he wanted to serve and protect."

Hundreds gathered at the ceremony, located just steps away from where Vásquez Lasso lived.

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"His love for our city, his neighbors and his family was greater than any hesitation or greater than any fear," Mayor Brandon Johnson said. "He rushed to danger for our sake and for our safety. There's no greater testimony for Officer Vásquez Lasso's service than this."

Vásquez Lasso was 32 when he was shot and killed responding to a domestic-related call on the 5200 block of South Spaulding in the Gage Park neighborhood.

"He showed up to a scene that was rapidly evolving, and no matter how dangerous it was, he continued to respond," CPD Supt. Larry Snelling said.

Vásquez Lasso was a four-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department at the time of his death. On Friday, The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation held a memorial roll call in the officer's honor at the 8th District on West 63rd Street.

His cousin said he immigrated from Colombia at age 18 with big dreams and goals.

"This journey separated him from his childhood friends but his determination for a better future drove him forward," Jhon Vásquez said. "A true hero will be remembered, not only because he wore an officer badge, but also for his smile and unwavering love for his family, friends and the community he served with honor and dedication."

Organizers of the ceremony said they hope the street sign serves as a grand reminder of the sacrifice of first responders, calling on people to to protect one another, just as Officer Vásquez Lasso did.