Investigation Launched After 20 Year Old Schiller Park Woman Recovered From Chicago River on Near South Side

Maria Jose Casas Fabela, 20, was found dead in the Chicago River on Sunday. Police and the medical examiner are investigating the Schiller Park woman's death.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 10:23 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Chicago Sun-Times

Discovery of a Fatality in the Chicago River

A death investigation is currently underway on Chicago’s Near South Side following the recovery of a body from the Chicago River. Early Sunday morning, emergency responders were alerted to a person in the water in the 2200 block of South Grove Avenue. According to reports from the Chicago Police Department, the individual was pulled from the river at approximately 8:05 a.m. on April 19, 2026. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, marking a somber start to the day for local residents and investigators arriving at the riverside location.

Identification of the Deceased and Geographic Ties

The Cook County medical examiner’s office has officially identified the woman as 20 year old Maria Jose Casas Fabela. While her body was discovered within the city limits, official records indicate that Casas Fabela was a resident of Schiller Park, a suburb located in the northwest metropolitan area. The distance between her home and the recovery site in the Near South Side neighborhood adds a layer of complexity to the timeline of events leading up to the discovery. Investigators are currently working to establish her movements prior to Sunday morning.

Medical Examination and Pending Forensic Results

As is standard protocol in unwitnessed deaths or cases involving bodies recovered from waterways, an autopsy has been scheduled. The medical examiner’s office will conduct a thorough forensic review to determine both the cause and the manner of death. According to police statements, there is currently no public information regarding whether foul play is suspected or if the incident appears to be accidental. The results of the toxicological and physical examinations will be pivotal in clarifying the circumstances surrounding the young woman's passing.