Body Recovered Along Chicago’s South Lakefront
The remains of Linda Brown, a 53-year-old Chicago Public Schools teacher who had been reported missing earlier this month, were recovered from Lake Michigan on Monday, January 12, 2026, authorities confirmed.
According to officials, Brown’s body was discovered just before noon in the water near the 3100 block of South Lake Shore Drive on Chicago’s South Side. Emergency responders were called to the area after reports of a body spotted in the lake.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed Brown’s identity, and her family was notified before the information was made public.
Missing Since Early January
Brown, a special education teacher at Robert Healy Elementary School, had been missing since January 3, 2026. Family members reported her disappearance after they were unable to reach her and became concerned about her whereabouts.
Loved ones, colleagues, and community members described Brown as a dedicated educator who was deeply committed to her students. Her disappearance prompted widespread concern within the school community and across Chicago.
Over the past week, family and friends organized searches along the lakefront and surrounding neighborhoods, hoping for answers as days passed without contact.
Surveillance Footage Provided Key Timeline
Investigators previously released limited details about Brown’s last known movements. Surveillance footage showed her parking her blue Honda Civic near 35th Street and Lake Park Avenue at approximately 3 a.m. on the day she was last seen.
The footage captured Brown walking alone across a pedestrian bridge toward the lakefront area. She was not observed returning to her vehicle, and no further confirmed sightings were reported after that point.
Authorities have not released information indicating whether anyone else was seen with her during that time.
Death Investigation Underway
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has classified the case as a death investigation, which remains ongoing. Officials said the exact cause and manner of death have not yet been determined and will be released once the investigation is complete.
Law enforcement has not indicated whether foul play is suspected. Officials emphasized that investigations involving water recoveries often take time due to the need for forensic analysis and review of available evidence.
Additional details are expected once autopsy results are finalized and investigative steps are completed.
Community Mourns Loss of Educator
News of Brown’s recovery brought a somber end to days of searching and uncertainty for her family, friends, and colleagues. Family members confirmed the discovery Monday afternoon and expressed gratitude for the support shown by the community during the search.
Chicago Public Schools officials acknowledged Brown’s service as an educator and extended condolences to her loved ones and the school community affected by her loss.
Counseling resources have been made available to students and staff at Robert Healy Elementary School as they process the news.
Authorities said they will continue working to determine the circumstances surrounding Brown’s death and urged the public to respect the family’s privacy as the investigation continues.
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