Boy, 17, Found Dead Near Homewood Nature Preserve After Reported Missing: PD

HOMEWOOD, IL — A 17-year-old Homewood boy was found dead near Izaak Walton Nature Preserve Wednesday after his father had reported him missing, police said.

Homewood police said late Wednesday that a death investigation was underway near the preserve.

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The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office on Thursday morning identified the person found as 17-year-old Luke Burica, of Homewood. Burica was found in the 17700 block of Ashland Avenue, according to medical examiner's records.

On May 27, at approximately 5:44 p.m., the Homewood Police Department was contacted to investigate a missing person report. Initial information indicated a father was concerned about the well-being of his 17-year-old son, who was last known to be in the area of the Izaak Walton Nature Preserve.

The Homewood Police Department began a search of the area in an attempt to locate the missing person. Officers utilized a drone and a K-9 unit from the Country Club Hills Police Department to assist in the search due to the expansive area and dense tree coverage. During the search, at approximately 7:29 p.m., the teen was located unconscious.

The Homewood Police Department attempted lifesaving measures but was unable to revive the boy. The Homewood Fire Department arrived on scene, and he was pronounced dead.

The Homewood Police Department, the Illinois State Police and the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office began conducting a death investigation.

The cause and manner of death are pending autopsy and toxicology results.

Police said the incident was isolated and there is no danger to the public.