OTTAWA – The occupant of a vehicle that plunged into the Illinois River in Ottawa, has died. According to Ottawa Police Chief Brent Roalson, on Wednesday just before midnight, officers attempted to
stop a vehicle in the area of Norris Dr. and Canal St. Police say the vehicle fled from authorities and continued to Allen Park, where it reportedly drove over the bank and straight into the river. The Ottawa Fire Department along with several rescue teams including dive teams were called immediately to assist. The driver and only occupant was pronounced deceased at the scene by the LaSalle County Coroner’s Office. A forensic autopsy has been scheduled for Thursday. The LaSalle County Sheriff’s Department and the LaSalle County Coroner’s Office are assisting in the investigation. The incident is under investigation.
