Man charged with murdering Army veteran, father in Humboldt Park

Suspect Jonathan Roldan arrested for January shooting death of Andrew Garay

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 35-year-old Chicago man named Jonathan Roldan has been charged with first-degree murder in the January shooting death of 30-year-old Andrew Garay, a U.S. Army veteran and father, in the city's Humboldt Park neighborhood.

Why it matters

The tragic loss of a young, beloved father and Army veteran has deeply impacted his family and the local community. This case highlights ongoing gun violence concerns in Chicago neighborhoods and the need to support veterans and their families.

The details

Police say Roldan allegedly shot Garay, who was sitting in his vehicle, around 9 p.m. on January 23 in the 3500-block of West Wabansia Avenue. Garay had just dropped off his girlfriend and her daughter at their home when the gunfire occurred. Garay's family described him as a selfless, hardworking person who got along with everyone, and said he aspired to become a Chicago police officer.

  • The shooting occurred around 9 p.m. on January 23, 2026.
  • Roldan was arrested by police on Thursday, April 11, 2026.
  • Roldan is due in court on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Jonathan Roldan

A 35-year-old Chicago resident who has been charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of Andrew Garay.

Andrew Garay

A 30-year-old U.S. Army veteran and father who was fatally shot while sitting in his vehicle in the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He kissed me on my forehead three hours before and said, 'Mom, I'll be back in a little bit.'”

— Debbie Knutt, Victim's mother

“It's just been complete shock, honestly. I don't think any of us really genuinely know how to feel or even accept that he's gone.”

— Samantha Knutt, Victim's sister

“Andrew just exuded this presence that made you feel safe, and he made you feel happy like I've never seen anybody, not like Andrew. If he loved you, he loved with everything... He was the person that would show up randomly and just make everything right.”

— Karjan Dambaugh, Victim's cousin

What’s next

Roldan is due in court on Sunday, April 13, 2026, where a judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing gun violence crisis in Chicago neighborhoods and the devastating impact it can have on families. It also underscores the importance of supporting veterans and their loved ones, and the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of violence in the city.