Patrick J. Yocum : “Lee County Sheriff’s Office Identifies Suspect in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash”

Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : LEE County, Illinois – The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has made significant progress in the investigation of a tragic hit-and-run crash that occurred on Monday night, claiming the life of a 40-year-old man from Rock Falls. Authorities have now identified a suspect in the incident, bringing hope for justice to the victim’s grieving family and the community at large.

The victim, Patrick J. Yocum, was walking near the intersection of Sterling and Walton roads, approximately 6 miles west of Amboy, when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle. A passerby discovered him lying in the middle of the roadway and immediately contacted emergency services. Yocum was promptly transported by the Amboy Fire Department to KSB Hospital in Dixon. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after.

Following an extensive search for leads, a breakthrough occurred on Tuesday when an individual came forward to report their involvement in a crash near the location where Yocum was struck. Acting swiftly, deputies were able to locate the offending vehicle, which was identified as a 2014 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle has since been impounded, and the driver has been questioned by detectives as part of the ongoing investigation.

To shed more light on the circumstances surrounding Yocum’s tragic death, authorities have conducted an autopsy. However, the results are currently pending the toxicology report. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist in further unraveling the details of this heartbreaking incident. Investigators have also received reports that another vehicle may have swerved to avoid Yocum on the roadway just before the collision.

Those with information relevant to the case are encouraged to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 284-6631 or Ogle-Lee Crimestoppers at 1-888-CAUGHT U (1-888-228-4488). Callers can remain anonymous, and they may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 if the information provided leads to an arrest.

The Lee County community fervently hopes that the identification of a suspect will bring them one step closer to justice for Patrick J. Yocum and his grieving loved ones. As the investigation continues, authorities will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of the truth.

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