The body recovered from Lake Michigan on Monday has been identified as that of Linda Brown, a 53-year-old Chicago Public Schools teacher who had been missing since January 2. Her family confirmed the tragic news shortly after authorities made the discovery just before noon in the 3100 block of South Lake Shore Drive.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s office reported that Brown was pronounced dead at the scene, prompting a death investigation with an autopsy scheduled to determine the cause of death. While police updated the status of her case, confirming she had been “located,” they did not disclose further details regarding her condition.
Linda Brown had been the subject of an extensive search after she disappeared while on her way to an acupuncture appointment. Her vehicle was discovered last week near 35th Street and Lake Park, and her family reported her missing after she failed to return home. The last known sighting of Brown was captured in an image from January 3, taken near 3500 S. Lake Park Ave.
Brown’s husband, Antwon Brown, expressed his fears during the search, highlighting that she left home with her phone, purse, and credit cards. Relatives noted that she was due to return to teaching shortly after her disappearance, having been on a leave of absence previously. The principal of Robert Healy Elementary School, Erin Kamradt, addressed the community about Brown’s situation, encouraging anyone with information to assist the police.
Brown’s sister, Lisa Quintana, remarked that her sibling’s sudden disappearance was out of character. In light of this tragic event, a call for any information regarding her disappearance has been made to Area One SVU detectives.
The community mourns the loss of Linda Brown, a dedicated teacher, while authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding her death.