Highland police confirm Silver Lake death investigation after widespread rumors
Rumors have been swirling on social media about whether a body found at Silver Lake in Highland two weeks ago involved an accident, suicide or murder.
On Thursday, Highland Police Department announced in a news release that it was conducting a death investigation, but it provided few additional details.
“At this time, there is no evidence to suggest any danger to the public,” the release stated.
Police Chief Carole Widman told the BND that the death occurred on May 21 and that her department didn’t ask for assistance from the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis.
Widman declined to comment on the nature of the death or if police had made any arrests or charged anyone with a crime.
“I will not be releasing any more information at this time,” she said. “Please respect the privacy of the family.”
The Madison County coroner’s office declined to provide information on the death Thursday.
“All releases are coming from the Highland Police Department,” said Shane Liley, chief investigator.
Highland police posted the news release at 1:24 p.m. Thursday on its Facebook page. It also appeared on the city’s website.
“We understand the public’s concern and are committed to providing accurate information as it becomes available,” the release stated. “The safety and well-being of our community remain our highest priority.”
The release called the investigation “open and active” and stated that investigators are waiting on forensic-analysis results.
The release noted that police are aware of “numerous social media posts” regarding the death. When asked why they waited until Thursday to post it, Widman said the department “decided it was time.”
Police are requesting that anyone with information about the case contact Detective Jeremiah Kingery directly by calling 618-654-2131, ext 3.
Silver Lake is part of Silver Lake Park, which is operated by the city of Highland. It’s 2 1/2 miles northeast of downtown, off Illinois 143.
This story was originally published June 5, 2025 at 3:55 PM.
