Chicago police officers arrived in Colombia on August 29, 2026 to provide humanitarian assistance to families still reeling from the earthquake that struck the country earlier in the month. The delegation, which includes Officer Scott Florez, is part of a coordinated relief effort aimed at delivering essential supplies and support to the most affected communities.
The quake that hit Colombia on August 10 registered a magnitude of 7.4 on the Richter scale. It caused widespread devastation, leaving more than 300 people dead and thousands injured across several regions. Buildings collapsed, infrastructure was severely damaged, and many survivors were left without food, water, or medical care.
The Chicago Police Department’s team is focused on distributing emergency relief items, including food, clean water, and medical kits, to households that lost everything in the disaster. Officers are also assisting local authorities in setting up temporary shelters and helping to coordinate the flow of aid from other international partners.
City officials said the mission reflects a growing trend of municipal agencies extending assistance beyond national borders when large‑scale emergencies occur. By sending personnel with experience in emergency response and community outreach, Chicago aims to complement the work of Colombian rescue and relief crews on the ground.
The earthquake’s aftermath continues to challenge Colombian officials, who are working to restore basic services and begin rebuilding efforts. International groups, governments, and non‑governmental organizations have pledged resources, and the presence of Chicago police officers adds another layer of support for the displaced families. The delegation plans to remain in Colombia for several weeks, monitoring needs and adjusting their assistance as the situation evolves.
The mission underscores the scale of the humanitarian response required after a disaster of this magnitude and highlights the willingness of city‑level agencies to contribute directly to relief operations abroad.