Body Found in Wheaton's Lincoln Marsh Area Raises Questions
WHEATON–The Wheaton community received unsettling news this week as a body was discovered in the Lincoln Marsh area.
Here’s what we know so far about the discovery and its impact on our community.
Discovery at Lincoln Marsh and Local Reaction to Body Found in Wheaton
Authorities confirmed the discovery of a body in Wheaton's Lincoln Marsh, a beloved natural area known for its walking trails and family-friendly atmosphere. Responding promptly, local police and investigators cordoned off the site, ensuring public safety and preserving evidence. While details surrounding the identity and circumstances remain under investigation, the community has taken to local social media groups for local discussion regarding the incident.
The body was found near a trail at Wheaton’s Lincoln Marsh Natural Area on Wednesday morning, December 18. According to Wheaton police, authorities were called to an area near the Union Avenue trailhead in Lincoln Marsh just before 7:30 a.m. following a report that a person who was walking along the trail discovered a body.
The Wheaton Police Department is urging anyone with information on this incident to contact them direct at 630-260-2161 or call DuPage Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS.
Story Update, Body Found in Lincoln Marsh was Set on Fire, Investigation Continues
WHEATON–At approximately 7:20 a.m., an individual walking in the area noticed a fire in the marsh off the trail and located burned human remains. The Wheaton Police Department and Wheaton Fire Department responded to this location, and Wheaton Police Department Detectives have been actively investigating this incident with the assistance of the DuPage County Coroner’s Office, the Arson Task Force and the Forensic Investigation Unit of the Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigations Team (M.E.R.I.T).
“Fire by its nature is destructive, and it adds a layer of complexity to an investigation which requires more time and resources,” stated Wheaton Police Chief P.J. Youker. “We understand that the community has questions, and we are working diligently to be able to provide more information. At this time, we have no reason to believe there is a threat to the public, and our personnel and partner resources will continue investigating this incident.”
The identity of the deceased individual will be released once next of kin has been notified in cooperation with the DuPage County Coroner’s Office.
The Wheaton Police Department will provide additional information as it is available through the City of Wheaton’s email/text updates (Wheaton Informs - https://www.wheaton.il.us/189/Updates-from-the-City ), City of Wheaton’s Facebook page (@CityOfWheaton), and the City’s website.
