The Killing of Patrick Kirby

On December 24, 2023, Patrick Kirby, age 29, was alone in his apartment on Charles Street across from Swedish American Hospital in Rockford. Late that night, neighbors heard him repeatedly saying, “Help me. Kill me,” which led them to call 911.

Rockford police officers Michael Rhein and Carlye Heitter responded. They entered the apartment building, and located Patrick’s unit. The door was slightly open, but they did not go inside.They knocked and asked him to come out. Patrick then came to the door holding a box cutter and a small knife. Rhein drew his firearm, pointed it at Patrick, and ordered him to drop the weapons. When Patrick did not comply, Rhein shot him twice in the chest, killing him.

The Rockford Police Department later released Rhein’s body camera footage showing the incident, a link to that footage is provided along with Patrick’s obituary.

This was the 37th case investigated and justified by the Winnebago Boone County Integrity Task Force.