What happened to Emily Martel on ‘Chicago P.D.’?

The characters on Chicago P.D. push forward each day, pursuing their demanding, sometimes nerve-wracking careers despite dealing with loss, heartbreak, missing teammates, or just a tough day at work.

When I first saw Emily Martel (played by Victoria Cartagena), I was thrilled to meet this sharp new detective—and she’s still on my mind. By season 12, Chicago P.D. knows it needs to raise the stakes, and the first few episodes have definitely delivered. Let’s dive into who Martel is and the impact she’s made on a long-standing character.

Much like a new friend can’t replace someone you’ve known forever, a fresh character can’t fully fill the void left by a fan favorite. However, when Victoria Cartagena joined the Chicago P.D. cast as Emily Martel in season 12, fans of Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos) were excited to have another strong detective to cheer on.

In a shocking twist, Emily is tragically killed in the line of duty in an intense encounter on a Chicago street. When gunfire erupts, she and Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger) attempt to help, but Emily is fatally shot. Adam is devastated and left in shock. Emily’s journey has been full of trauma; her previous partner died on the job, and she’s back in action after taking time away to grieve.

According to Chicago P.D. showrunner Gwen Sigan, Cartagena’s portrayal was powerful, even with limited screen time. “I fell in love with her by the end of the episode,” Sigan told NBC Insider, praising Cartagena’s ability to make an impact in a brief role.

Fans are disappointed Emily’s story won’t continue, but her death serves as a crucial moment for Adam. In an interview with Parade, Flueger explained how the emotional toll hits Adam hard. When he looked at his blood-covered hands after Emily’s death, it reminded him of the weight of his work. Despite the trauma, Adam quickly steps up in a dangerous situation shortly after, rescuing a two-year-old from a domestic dispute.

Even though Emily could have brought so much to the series had she stayed, her storyline adds new layers to Adam’s character. Flueger shared with The Hollywood Reporter that such a tragic moment after all he’s faced was “a shocker.” It’s a reminder of just how risky this job is every time these detectives go out.

Emily Martel’s time on Chicago P.D. may have been short, but it was memorable. She didn’t deserve to face such an end, and Adam’s pain resonates deeply. As season 12 unfolds, it’s clear that her impact, however brief, has set the stage for a powerful storyline.