The body of a 37-year-old Chicago man was recovered Monday afternoon from the Cal-Sag Channel, almost a week after he was reported missing, according to the Palos Heights Police Department.
Police said the body was identified as Joshua Blair, who was last seen leaving his home in the 11400 block of Lothair Avenue about 3 a.m. April 29, and had not been heard from since.
Police launched a search after finding Blair’s unoccupied vehicle parked in the roadway in the 11800 block of South Harlem Avenue, police said. His personal belongings, including his phone and wallet, were still inside, they said.
Police called for the public’s help in the search and had used drones, its marine unit, canine units with the Chicago Ridge Police Department and helicopter assistance from Chicago police in the search, initially without success.
Officers conducting an aerial search of the Cal-Sag Channel located Blair’s body in the water between the Southwest Highway and Archer Avenue bridges at 1:30 p.m., police said.
His remains were transported to the Cook County medical examiner’s office, where family members confirmed his identity following a postmortem examination.
“Our thoughts are with Joshua’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time,” the department said in a statement. “We extend our deepest condolences and stand ready to provide them with the support they may need in the days ahead.”
smoilanen@chicagotribune.com
