Chicago Crisis Counselor Zet Rodriguez Killed in Vigil Shooting – NBC Chicago

Zet Rodriguez, a Chicago crisis counselor and proud father of a little girl, had big plans for Mother’s Day.

The 24-year-old planned to propose to his partner, relatives told NBC Chicago.

His partner, who asked to remain anonymous, mourned over Mother’s Day weekend after Rodriguez was shot and killed in the Dunning neighborhood early Friday morning. Rodriguez was walking to his bus to work near Irving Park Road and Pittsburgh Avenue when he was shot.

Chicago police took two people of interest in for questioning. But on Sunday they were released without charge. According to 38th District Ald. Nick Sposato, who represents the township, captured on surveillance video a suspect shooting Rodriguez, robbing him and demanding money.

“Two people of interest were very upset yesterday morning, and this morning I got a call saying they were released, so,” Sposato said. “I hope for better news tomorrow. But that’s where we are right now.”

According to his partner, Rodriguez studied social work in college and spent his time helping people as a crisis counselor.

But his role as father to his six-month-old daughter was the highlight of his life.

“He was really good at it. He loved to feed and she loved to play with her,” said Rodriguez’s partner. His favorite thing in the world. He was the first to make her laugh, she just loved him.”

As she continued to grieve, Rodriguez’s partner wondered what lay ahead.

“How will my daughter be without him? How will I be without him? He’s just an all-around good person,” she said.