After an extensive search involving multiple law enforcement resources and community partners, Lake County Sheriff’s Department officers located the body of a 73-year-old Hebron man Friday morning at Stoney Run County Park, police said.
At approximately 4:25 p.m. on Thursday, July 23, the man’s wife reported him missing. During the initial investigation, officers tracked the man’s cellphone and located his vehicle in the park parking lot. His cell phone was found inside the vehicle, according to a release from Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Department immediately launched a large-scale search operation that continued into the night. Resources deployed included the department’s Aviation Unit helicopter, drones, K-9 teams, all-terrain vehicles and numerous officers conducting an extensive ground search through heavily wooded terrain.
Search efforts resumed Friday morning with approximately 50 Lake County police officers and officers from additional agencies conducting a meticulous grid search of the park on foot. Shortly after the search began, officers located the man’s body just off a trail in a heavily wooded area.
Preliminary findings indicate foul play is not suspected. The investigation into the man’s death remains ongoing. Out of respect for the family, no additional information is being released at this time.
“The Lake County Sheriff’s Department extends its sincere appreciation to the family, friends, volunteers, and the numerous law enforcement agencies that assisted in the search effort,” Martinez said in the release. “Our hearts go out to this man’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”