Body Recovered from Chicago River Sparks Death Investigation

Authorities examine circumstances surrounding tragic river incident

Photo byMacarena OllarzúonUnsplash

CHICAGO – On Saturday morning, police recovered a body from the Chicago River, leading to an ongoing investigation. The Marine Unit discovered the unidentified male at approximately 8 a.m. in the 400 block of West Adams Street. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have initiated a death investigation, pending autopsy results. The body has been transported to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office for identification. Further details about the incident have not been released at this time.

As Chicago summer temperatures continue to soar, Dave Benjamin, cofounder of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, emphasized the importance of water safety. “If it’s warm and it’s windy and there are waves on a weekend, we’re going to have a higher increase in drowning incidents,” Benjamin noted.

Benjamin highlighted that many drowning fatalities are preventable, pointing out that the majority involve victims who are not wearing life jackets. Additionally, he mentioned that approximately half of boating-related deaths involve alcohol. He urged residents to wear appropriate life jackets and avoid alcohol consumption while on the water.

He drew a parallel to emphasize the importance of being prepared: “Imagine trying to put your seatbelt on during a car crash. It’s the same thing if you’re trying to put on a life jacket during a boating incident or water emergency; it’s going to be very difficult.”

Benjamin also advised caution for those who witness water emergencies. “Most people assume that knowing how to swim is water safety,” he said. “Water safety is knowing a survival strategy.” He explained that the best approach to saving someone may not involve entering the water.

“If someone is struggling in water over their head, what we recommend is flip, float, follow,” Benjamin advised. “If you see someone struggling in the water, call 911, alert a lifeguard, reach something to that person, or throw something that floats. It’s dangerous to enter water to rescue someone.”

He also mentioned that the temperature of the water, even in warm weather, can contribute to fatal outcomes. “Generally if someone is wearing a life jacket and it turns into a fatal drowning incident, it’s generally associated with cold water, which can cause hypothermia,” he explained. “Even though it’s warmer air temps, we have cold water temps, so hypothermia can be a contributing factor.”

As the investigation into the recovered body continues, authorities urge residents to practice water safety and remain vigilant during the summer months.