Body of missing Chicago pastor found dead in submerged car

Police found the body of Warren Beard, a Chicago pastor who had been missing since July 2, in the Des Plaines River near Rockdale on Tuesday, Jul. 9. According to People, the coroner pronounced Beard dead at 6:20 pm that evening.

Beard, who assisted at a South Side church, New Israelite Missionary Baptist, and had five children, was last seen visiting friends in Joliet on July 2. His disappearance had prompted concern and a search effort by family and authorities.

The situation developed when the Army Corps alerted Rockdale police about security footage showing Beard's Honda CR-V plunging into the river late on July 2. After searching for hours, they finally found the car Tuesday afternoon around 2:45 pm.

Beard's family and friends are devastated, remembering his good works. His aunt Theresa said the family is crushed, adding, "We are all hurting right now. We all know Reverend Warren Beard is not someone who would just disappear without saying a word to his family."

According to NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV,

there was no indication of foul play but the state police are now leading the investigation. They will conduct an autopsy on Wednesday to determine the cause of death.

The circumstances leading to Beard's car entering the river remain unclear. According to the Sun-Times, a traffic camera captured his vehicle on North Broadway in Joliet around 10 pm on July 2.

The discovery of Beard's body ended the frantic search that had been ongoing since his disappearance. His loved ones and church community are left to cope, trying to honor a man who lived for his faith and helping others.

The investigation continues as officials seek more information about the circumstances surrounding Beard’s death.