LEE COUNTY, Ill. —
Updated Story
The Lee County Sheriff's Office has identified a suspect in a Monday hit-and-run that killed 40-year-old Patrick J. Yocum. On Dec. 5, authorities were contacted by an individual who said they were involved in an accident near the scene of the incident. The individual's vehicle was identified as a 2014 Jeep Cherokee, which was subsequently impounded by police.
The driver was questioned by detectives, but their name is being withheld at this time.
An autopsy of Yocum was conducted on Wednesday and the outcome is pending toxicology results.
Original Story
Officials with the Lee County Sherrif's Office are currently investigating a hit-and-run accident that left one man dead, according to a press release.
Around 9:30 Monday night, 40-year-old Patrick J. Yocum of Rock Falls was walking near the intersection of Sterling Road and Walton Road when he was struck by an unknown vehicle. The area is located approximately eight miles south of Dixon.
Yocum was found in the middle of the road by a passerby. He was transported to an area hospital by the Amboy Fire Department where he was later pronounced deceased.
An accident reconstructionist and detectives arrived on the scene to help with the case. Evidence found at the scene revealed that the suspect's vehicle had substantial front-end damage to its grill, hood and windshield as a result of the crash. The suspect's vehicle is believed to be a 2014 to 2018 Jeep Cherokee.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in locating the person and vehicle responsible for the fatal hit-and-run. Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff's office at (815) 284-6631 or the Ogle-Lee Crimestoppers at 1-888-CAUGHT U (1-888-228-4488). Callers can choose to remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 if the tip helps lead to an arrest.
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