Ohio Priest Jumps To Death From Chicago Hotel Amid Investigation

CHICAGO, IL — A man who jumped to his death Wednesday from the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel in the Loop was a Catholic priest, according to several reports. Traffic on North Columbus Drive was blocked off in both directions around 9 a.m. while police investigated. The Cook County medical examiner's office ruled it was a suicide.

The priest, James Csaszer, 44, had worked at the Church of the Resurrection in New Albany, Ohio, until an investigation was launched into misconduct allegations against him. He was placed on administrative leave in November, according to a church media release.

"Father Csaszar was placed on an administrative leave by the Diocese of Columbus after diocesan officials were made aware of excessive and questionable text and telephone communications with a minor and potential misuse of church funds while serving as pastor of St. Rose Parish, New Lexington," the release stated.

Csaszar helped many people in his community, according to the church's statement.

"In his years of priestly ministry Fr. Csaszar did many good things for the people that he served in his parish assignments," the church said in the press release.

No charges against Csaszer had been filed. Ohio law enforcement said the investigation was in preliminary stages when Csaszar died, and it will continue despite the suicide.

Photo by Amber Fisher