1 year after Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez's killing, community continues to call for accountability

MELROSE PARK, Ill. (WLS) -- Community leaders, elected officials and residents gathered Saturday to mark one year since the death of Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez. He was shot and killed by a federal agent during Operation Midway Blitz.

The video in the player above is from a previous report.

Villegas-Gonzalez was 38 when he was killed during a traffic stop in Franklin Park on September 12, 2025

At the time, Department of Homeland Security officials said the shooting was justified, alleging that Villegas-Gonzalez drove his vehicle toward agents and caused serious injuries.

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One year later, supporters say they are still seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding his death.

"We need to know exactly what happened," said Hernan Prieto, deputy director of P.A.S.O. West Suburban Action Project.

During a rally in Melrose Park, community organizers and elected leaders called for accountability as investigations continue.

The fatal shooting remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police Public Integrity Task Force and could be referred to the Cook County State's Attorney's Office for possible prosecution.

"We're also demanding that Eileen Burke does her job and also does an investigation," said state Rep. Norma Hernandez, D-Melrose Park, who represents the 77th District.

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Elected leaders say they also want more to be done at the federal level.

"I think in many cases it feels like we are exactly where we were the day after still waiting to see justice," said U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez.

"So we are working on demanding this investigation from the FBI. I am going to do more of that within the oversight committee of Homeland Security which I serve on," Ramirez said.

The anniversary was also observed in Franklin Park, where a mass was held in honor of Villegas-Gonzalez. Village officials are working to create a permanent memorial space dedicated to his memory.

Family supporters and community advocates said the anniversary serves as a reminder that questions about the shooting remain unresolved.

Attorneys representing the Villegas-Gonzalez family said they plan to file a lawsuit against the U.S. government as part of the family's effort to seek accountability for his death.