Woman Dies After Trying To Help Son In Des Plaines River

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — A woman died Sunday evening after entering the Des Plaines River at Independence Grove to help her son, according to Lake County Forest Preserves police.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death in the Des Plaines River near Libertyville on Sunday evening,” Lake County Forest Preserves Police Chief Ron Davis said. “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

The woman entered the river at about 7 p.m. to assist her son, who was able to reach a family member, according to the Lake County forest preserve officials. The woman then went underwater, and a family member and nearby patrons pulled her from the river.

Lake County Forest Preserves police and the Libertyville Fire Department responded. Paramedics treated the woman at the scene before she was taken to Advocate Condell Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.

Lake County Forest Preserves police and the Lake County Medical Examiner’s Office are continuing to investigate the incident, Davis said.