Body of Beloved Chicago Pastor Found in Des Plaines River, Investigation Continues Amid Mourning

River mourning community unity.

Body of Missing Chicago Pastor Unearthed from Des Plaines River

The city of Chicago is in mourning after the body of Reverend Warren Beard of New Israelite Missionary Baptist Church was tragically discovered in the Des Plaines River in Rockdale, Illinois. His vehicle was recovered from the river alongside his body. The discovery was confirmed by the Will County Coroner.

Last Appearance and Discovery

Reverend Warren Beard was last seen on July 2, with a license plate reader camera picking up his vehicle near the intersection of Jefferson Street and Larkin Avenue around 10:30 p.m. Authorities were alerted to possible video footage of a vehicle entering the river, and subsequent investigation led to the recovery of Beard’s vehicle from the Des Plaines River at 2:45 p.m. this past Tuesday.

While officials initially hesitated to confirm the identity of the body, Beard’s grieving family confirmed with certainty that the remains belonged to their beloved kin. The Will County Coroner later affirmed this identification.

Remembering a Devoted Pastor

Beard, a 53-year-old pastor assistant and Sunday school teacher, was remembered fondly by those who knew him. “He was the greatest person. One of the greatest men I’ve met in my life,” said Pastor Chenier Alston who had worked with Beard for 18 years at the church.

According to accounts, Beard had been in a jovial mood the night of his disappearance. He was known as a devoted family man and his sudden disappearance was considered out of character.

Local Reactions

Local community members filled the Auburn Gresham church, praying and consoling each other in light of the devastating news. “We are all hurting right now,” said Beard’s Aunt Theresa Boss-French. “We all know Reverend Warren Beard is not someone who would just disappear without saying a word to his family.”

Beard, a father of five, was known to frequently visit Joliet due to the friends he had in the area. His failure to return home and to his job with the Preservation of Affordable Housing the following morning raised alarms among those who knew him.

Investigation Underway

While the circumstances around Beard’s disappearance and subsequent death are puzzling, local officials assert that there is no immediate evidence of foul play. The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of a significant figure in their community.