Authorities in Elk Grove Village are investigating the death of a man whose body was recovered from a retention pond on Thursday afternoon, bringing an end to a month-long search that began after a crash in March.
The deceased was identified by police as Alexis Ramirez, a 26-year-old resident of Elk Grove Village, according to officials from Elk Grove Police and Fire Departments.
Ramirez had been reported missing since March 10 after a crash near Higgins Road and Brennan Boulevard. Officers said he was the driver in a single-vehicle crash in the area close to the pond where he was later found.
Following the crash, law enforcement launched an extensive search using canine units, drones, and sonar equipment. Despite these efforts, no immediate leads were discovered, and Ramirez remained missing for several weeks.
On Thursday afternoon, dive teams responded to a retention pond in the 700 block of Innovation Drive in Elk Grove Village, where they located a fully clothed body in the water.
Police confirmed the discovery and notified the Cook County medical examiner’s office. Officials stated that there is no evidence of foul play at this time, and the investigation into the cause and manner of death is ongoing.
Family members gathered at the scene and spoke with reporters, describing their grief and shock as authorities continued their work at the pond site.
The case has drawn attention in the northwest suburbs community, where residents expressed concern about roadway safety and missing person response efforts in the weeks following the initial crash.
Authorities continue to review evidence as they await final determinations from the medical examiner.
According to investigators, Ramirez was last seen after the March 10 crash near Higgins Road and Brennan Boulevard. Witness accounts and early police reports indicated he was alone in the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Weeks of searching included coordinated efforts between local police, fire departments, and volunteer search teams who canvassed surrounding industrial areas and waterways near the crash location.
Residents in Elk Grove Village said the discovery has been difficult to process, as many had followed updates on the missing person case since March.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains open while toxicology and autopsy results are pending review by the medical examiner’s office.
Police also reiterated that there is currently no indication of criminal activity connected to the death, though they continue to document every step of the investigation process.
The retention pond area near Innovation Drive remained partially cordoned off as crews completed their work and ensured all equipment was removed safely from the scene.
Community members expressed hope that lessons from the case will encourage drivers and residents to seek help sooner after roadway incidents, particularly when individuals may be injured or disoriented.
Authorities said updates will be provided once the medical examiner completes the final report and all findings are reviewed by investigators involved in the case.
Elk Grove Village is a suburban community in the northwest region of Cook County known for its industrial parks and residential neighborhoods.
The investigation continues as officials work to bring clarity and closure to the case for the family and community.
No additional details have been released at this time as authorities respect the family’s privacy during this difficult period and ongoing review.
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