After finding what authorities believe to be Philip Patnaude’s property, officials diligently searched Belmont Harbor for the 28-year-old man who went missing in Lakeview Saturday.
Sunday, at 3 p.m., authorities announced that a coat was found floating in Belmont Harbor.
The coat pulled from the water was described as a black ski jacket with green trim... the description matches the coat Patnaude was allegedly wearing when he went missing, said authorities.
In additional to police and rescue workers, Patnaude's family members, as well as the media, were on scene at the Lakeview neighborhood harbor.
At 3:17 p.m., a diver entered the water, presumably, searching for Patnaude’s body. A second diver went into the harbor at 3:26 p.m.
If more details become available, this article will be updated accordingly.
UPDATE: "The initial search turned up negative", said an officer at the scene, around 3:42 p.m.
UPDATE: The first round of divers were out of the water by 3:54 p.m. A second round of divers will resume the search, shortly.
UPDATE: At 4:23 p.m., investigators discovered what looks like a scuff mark on the ground of an unspecified area within the harbor. Authorities said it looks like someone “tripped” and lost their footing. Divers are checking beneath the docks.
UPDATE: At 5:17 p.m. there were signs the Chicago Police Marine Unit was either suspending the search for the evening, or scaling back their efforts... an unspecified number of crew members were told they could leave the scene.
UPDATE: At 5:33 p.m. authorities asked Belmont Harbor officials for the combination for the restrooms on the south end of harbor. Authorities were told that the restrooms are closed for the winter and unable to be used. This information was passed on to the detectives at the scene.
UPDATE: A helicopter joined the search at 5:47 p.m. The pilot was asked to fly over the area where Patnaude's jacket was found floating in the water.
UPDATE: As of 7:18 p.m., authorities were still at Belmont Harbor. This information was confirmed after police dispatch contacted the responding to officers to make sure they were still at the scene.
UPDATE: 7:52 p.m.... Coast Guard performing a “grid search”… investigators still focused on area where jacket was found… divers will return at sunup, but search efforts may continue throughout the night.
UPDATE: Monday, March 5, 2012, at approximately 10:26 a.m., "something", possible Patnaude's body, was pulled from Belmont Harbor. Additional police cars were called to the scene to assist the divers with the recovery and crowd control.
UPDATE: Reports indicate the body recovered from the harbor matches Patnaude's physical description.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Philip Patnaude: Divers recover missing man's body at Belmont Harbor
238 comments:
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Thank you for the updates
ReplyDeleteThank you for the updates, still searching?
ReplyDeleteSo far, there haven't been any updates. I will continue to monitor several frequencies and soon as I hear anything... I'll update this article.
ReplyDeletePraying for a miracle. Thank you for the consistent updates!
ReplyDeletePlease let us know!
ReplyDeleteThis must be excruciatingly painful for friends and family. Prayers are being said for him as well as his loved ones.
ReplyDeleteAlcohol and night swimming! It's a winning combination!
ReplyDeleteYour comment is beyond uncalled for. This is someones family. How dare you make a comment like that.
DeleteYou are so ignorant. No one knows what happened to Phil. Prayers are being said.
Delete"Your comment is beyond uncalled for. This is someones family. How dare you make a comment like that."
ReplyDeleteABSOLUTELY AGREE. This family can use all of the prayers they can get.
To whoever was ignorant enough to post that awful comment, shame on you! This is someone's life, it's not a joke and the pain and suffering his family must be going through is unimaginable. How dare you mock this. Remember your "compassion" when a tragedy happens to someone you love.
DeleteI am friends with Phil who is missing and I have to say that I am disappointed to see people be so disrespectful in a time like this. What a shame. To all the people with your kind responses thank you.
ReplyDeletepraying for a safe return
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for you Phil.
ReplyDeletePraying for Phil and friends and family.
ReplyDeleteHoping and praying for his safe return
ReplyDeleteTo the "alcohol and night swimming" comment poster: You should be ashamed of yourself. How would you feel if it was your friend/family member/fiance who was missing? Completely inappropriate and disrespectful.
ReplyDeleteThe "alcohol and night swimming" commenter is a prime example of how the Internet enables losers with no soul and nothing to live for to show others exactly what they are: total garbage.
ReplyDeletePrayers to the Patnaude family from all of your Downers Grove friends.
ReplyDeleteI went to HS with the guy. He's a good kid! Prayers for both him and his family.
ReplyDeleteHilarious, you people. A couple southsiders blast each other to bits and you cant line up to make fun of it quick enough, some stupid fuckin yuppie falls into the lake and its some grand tragedy.
ReplyDeleteYou have a nerve you ignorant idiot! This family does not need to hear such garbage from an asshole who apparently has an agenda against young people who may have a slight advantage. Because he maybe a yuppie does not make this any less tragic than an innocent kid being killed by a gang banger! I suggest you think before you say such callous things, the next tragedy may happen to someone you love!!
DeletePhil is one hell of a guy - praying for his safe return. Thanks for the updates.
ReplyDeleteTo his family who is reading this - hang in there.
I don't think any decent person would consider any kind of tragedy hilarious. This shouldn't be some kind of fight. My prayers are with Phil and his friends and family. Thank you for the updates.
ReplyDeleteEVERY missing person or death is a tragedy. You don't know that these same people are judging "southsiders". Is it a lesser of a tragedy if it's a so called "yuppie". You are being hypocritical. I am praying for you and this young man tonight.
ReplyDeletePhil is one of the nicest and most genuine individuals I have ever met. Praying he will come home safe.
ReplyDeleteThe lack of compassion in some people is astonishing. Phil is FAR from "some stupid fuckin yuppie" and for you to judge him in a situation like this based solely on a stereotype is disgusting. Gotta love the cowards who post negative comments as "Anonymous", too. Pathetic.
ReplyDeleteMy prayers and thoughts are with you all.
ReplyDeleteThanks ChicagoNewsReport for keeping a feed going.
Love and prayers from all D.G.N. graduates. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
ReplyDeletePhil is an amazing man who'd be out there searching for any one of us. He is the nicest, truest, friend you could ever hope for. Keep praying!!
ReplyDeleteThe hypocritical behavior displayed right now is beyond imagination. Some day, you people will learn that you reap what you sow. You gleefully submit racist comments to this site about the smallest of events that affect those you consider to be "undesirables." But now, you're lifting prayers for a buddy. I can guarantee that this story will not end well. Karma is a bitch.
ReplyDeleteHow do you know any of these people have ever commented on this blog before? It sounds like you are jumping to conclusions and making yourself look like a fool.
ReplyDeleteDid police remember to check the glory hole when they were in the bathrooms?
ReplyDeletePraying for Phil's safe return and all those family and friends that are suffering. While I only knew Phil a little, every interaction was so positive and he really brought laughter to our group.
ReplyDeleteVery pleasant coworker.I hope he is okay.
ReplyDeleteand its pretty obvious this guy has really shitty friends if they let his drunk ass go solo drunken lake wandering at 230 am.
ReplyDeleteMr. Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteWill you please stop commenting. You do not have the right timing or the right place for your comments. You are hurting people who you are assuming make comments on other sites. The majority of these people have not left comments on any other story. They are only interested in their friend. Please do not pass your judgements on people who are grieving in this situation only. Do not make something out of nothing.
Thank you
Wow. Someone chasing tragedies as a sad excuse to spread their filth. Karma is most definitely a bitch--my imagination runs wild with the possibilities she'll have in store for you, "anonymous."
ReplyDeleteWow. Hate is really ugly. If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.
ReplyDeleteI also went high school and college with Phil. He is an amazing guy. Praying a dsafe return fir the sakelove od him, for his family, fiance and Illini who love him.
ReplyDeletePhil is a decent, genuine, and kind hearted person that deserves nothing but love and respect. The rude comments are incredibly disgusting!!! My thoughts, love, and prayers to all of Phil's friends and family.
ReplyDeleteMan some people are just so so sad. These comments really are just disgusting. May god bless your soul's because clearly you need prayer.
ReplyDeleteI'll be praying for Phil and all his family. we love you! And I would like to apologize on behalf of all these terrible comments on here. What a tragic time, and what a tragic incident. Don't lose hope. Nothing is impossible with Christ.
Sending love and prayers during this time.
ReplyDeletewhye was he wearing a tshirt in march anyway??? i know it wuz warm this winder but jeez...
ReplyDeleteI had the pleasure of going to HS with Phil. He is always a genuine, kind, and extremely positive guy that always made school just a little bit more enjoyable - my prayers go out to his family and friends. Ignore the guy hate trolling - he a loser that really doesn't even deserve a comment. But I agree, Karma is a bitch....
ReplyDeletePrayers for the Patnaude family.
ReplyDeleteI've been praying and praying for Phil, his family, his friends, and his fiance. There is much we don't know yet ... faith and prayers are powerful. Thank you for the updates Chicago News Report.
ReplyDeletePhil is a son, brother, fiancé, best friend, friend, a successful college graduate, and much much more. Please remember this as you decide to comment or make ridiculous assumptions about this tragic story. He has the kindest soul and an energetic spirit that is infectious to all those surrounding him. This situation is incredibly heartbreaking. Much love to his family, fiancé, friends, and the class of 2002.
ReplyDeletePlease do not respond to any of the ignorant responses above. People are obviously just trying to fuel the fire and they deserve no recognition whatsoever. Please only post love for Phil, his family and his loved ones from here on out. Anything else is a waste of what is obviously precious time and life.
ReplyDeleteMuch love & prayers for Phil & the Patnaude family.
ReplyDeleteI only knew Phil casually/briefly at U of I - and yet the fact that he is missing has me feeling shocked, torn apart, and devastated. THAT is the kind of person Phil is. Without even trying, he positively touches the lives of those around him. My thoughts and prayers are with him, his family, and his friends. Please know that for every 1 cynic out there (who clearly doesn't know Phil), there are at least 100 people pulling for him right now.
ReplyDeletethis comment is on point... i was friends with phil for a couple years in grade school... and we went our sep ways as the years went on... but he was always a nice genuine guy and would always shake my hand and say whats up when we crossed paths... he seems to have been carrying on a great life... and this potentially bad news is a hard pill to swallow for anyone who interacted with this man... even if for a brief moment... i hope for those closest to him right now that he is well...
Deleteas for the ignorance going on... i for one have never posted anything racist or ignorant on this website... nor any other... opinions are opinions... but your generalization of a websites typical followers who have certain views and morals has nothing to do with phil or his family and friends. and we can only hope the karma for your comments is what makes you such a bitter individual... and you prolly deserve it.
I went to high school with Phil and he was one of the most genuine people you could ever know. Praying for Phil and his friends, family, and fiance that this ends positively.
ReplyDeleteA big thanks to authorities who are out there searching. We will keep praying!
ReplyDeleteThis is any family's worst nightmare. My wife taught him and I coached him in high school. Phil was a terrific young man. We're praying for the family tonight.
ReplyDeletewhat a tragedy... this is why i told them not too overturned the gun ban...
ReplyDeleteget well soon!
I can't believe how rude some of you are. My cousin is his fiance and it amazes me how disrespectful you can be when people are suffering. This is someone's life! My prayers go out to the families involved in this, and thank you Chicago News for keeping this up to date.
ReplyDeleteI knew phil in high school and visited him during college. He was an outstanding man of character and was am extremely positive person! Always with a smile and a handshake of respect.made sure to go out of his way to say hello and see how you were doing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family!
ReplyDeleteThoughts and prayers with Phil and his family. Thanks to CNR for the timely updates.
ReplyDeletePraying for Phil and his family. May God's light find you.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the continual updates Chicago News Report. Thank you to the Chicago Police Department for all their hard work and efforts. This is Phil's fiancé, and I cannot express how much your prayers and thoughts mean to me. I promise to keep him away from the lake in the future.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI do not know Phil but I went to grade school and high school with his mom Phyllis. My heart is breaking for the entire family. I hope and pray for a good ending to this nightmare.
ReplyDeleteI haven't seen all of you in a while, and it really breaks my heart to be contacting you over such tragic moment. I just want to let all of you know that all that positive energy and love is making Phil stronger wherever he is. I didnt spend many years close to you all, but i know who you are and you should know as well... Don't let anybody (stranger or not) hurt/offend you bc, whatever comes out of us is only a reflection of the pain we have inside. Im with Kevin, focus. Love u all, Phil please come back.
ReplyDeleteI am praying for Phil, his family, Selena and all of their friends. I knew Phil in college. I saw him at a party around Christmas and wished we had stayed in touch. He is one of the nicest people I've ever met. He really beams happiness. Keeping everyone who knows Phil in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know if the police or coast guard plans on using side-scan sonar? Such technology could map the entire harbor in a fraction of the time it would take teams of divers.
ReplyDeleteI think it's great that at least 25 people have said Phil is 'in their prayers'. If their 'God' is real - rather than an imaginary fairy tale being - then I would think He would intervene & save Phil. Otherwise what more important stuff might this God be doing...?
ReplyDeletePray in one hand, and shit in the other. Let me know which one fills up faster... I hope Phil is OK as much as the next guy, but as you said, 25 people clogging up the boards with their prayers isn't much help. Get your butt out there and look for him if you're so concerned.
DeleteTo the anonymous commenter that is desperately in need of psychiatric help: Would your parents be proud of the things you're saying here? Would they be proud that you're pretty much laughing in the faces of people going through a very tragic time, and that you're getting off on it? I don't know you, and I don't know Philip or anyone in his family, but as I go to sleep tonight I will wish upon them that tomorrow will hopefully bring something positive and that Philip is OK. For you, however, I'll laugh a little bit and take comfort in the fact that when you're life comes to an end some day, you will probably be as alone as you are now, with only your disrespect and scorn for your fellow man to keep you warm.
ReplyDeleteyou wanna talk about the South Side, let me quote somebody that rose out of the South Side, Kanye West from his song Bring Me Down "There'd always be somebody that shoot down any dream. There'll always be haters, that's the way it is. Hater niggas marry hater bitches and have hater kids. But they're gonna have to take my life 'fore they take my drive." So why don't you just stop dude.
ReplyDeleteWishing the best for Phil and his family. A special part of my heart goes out to Selena.
ReplyDeleteNo matter how this works out, I'll always remember Phil and a fun loving and energetic guys. 3 things I'll never forget about Phil:
1. Dude wore flip flops everyday in college. I don't think he owned a pair of shoes. It would be -20 out and he would have on a winter coat with his sandals. It would be summer and he would wear his sandals all day and he would come home and his feet would be black from the asphalt, sweat and dirt baking on his feet all day.
2. Phil was an amazing ultimate frisbee player. He had a natural talent with a frisbee. He could throw the disc forwards, reverse and with either hand.
3. Phil had a smile that went on for miles. That's the one thing I'll remember most about Phil. I remember spring break sophomore year and Phil was smiling in his sleep. He had those sweet dimples because he never quit smiling.
Phil was and is an awesome dude. I'm wishing and hoping for the best.
Telling people to go look instead of pray? Why can't you do both? What if someone here is out of town, handicapped, is experiencing a death in their family...maybe all they CAN do is pray. And maybe the people who say they are praying actually are helping too.
ReplyDeleteI don't even know Phil, I just heard about this story from a fried of mine who knows Phil's family. I cannot physically get downtown to search tomorrow. But I'll still pray for him and his family.
friend*
ReplyDeletethis want to make clear that the Kanye quote is directed at the people hating on Phil and his family and friends. A missing person's report is not the place to vent your grievances or post negative comments. I can't even believe you would have the nerve to do that. If you want to change thing, use the democratic process. Get involved. Spewing hate is only propagating the negativity that causes violence. You reap what you sow. Start spreading positivity, sympathy, hope and other good things, please.
ReplyDelete- the Kanye poster
ps - I'm sorry about the negativity of Kanye's lyrics, I just thought maybe somebody from your own neighborhood could show you how negative you're being and how that negativity needs to cease.
There is a photo on the trib website of Philip's fiancé on her knees crying at the harbor. Although I do not personally know him, just seeing this picture broke my heart. I would ask anyone with negative comments to please view this picture. It truly does not matter where you are from, I think anyone can relate to or sympathize with the millions of horrible emotions displayed on her face. It is so unbelievably cruel to try and break anyones spirt in this time of crisis. Philip has a degree from an excellent school, a job, a fiancé, and a lovely home... even from these small details it is evident this man has his life together and is responsible. He is 28, not some careless, naive child like the negative comments are trying to depict. Accidents happen. Let us all pray, hope, and wish that this is just one big accident and he will return safely.
ReplyDelete-Prayers and well wishes from Downers Grove
Who lets a drunk friend go hang out at the lake at 2:30am?
ReplyDeleteOur prayers are with his friends and family.
ReplyDeleteI live very close to Belmont Harbor and have been following this since it hit the media. Such a horrible situation, my prayers are with everyone who knows him.
ReplyDeleteThats just what this situation calls for. Kayne West lyrics. You ignorant fuck.
ReplyDeleteWhat I want to know is who is paying for this? You think the police and coast guard dont have better things to be doing than bobbing for clumsy alcoholic corpses on Lake Michigan?
Maybe Phil will show up alive. Maybe Phil was sexing some prostitute and feel asleep drunk somewhere. He is in a hotel right now thinking of a way to explain his disappearance in the wake of the OVER-THE-TOP news about him.
ReplyDeleteOr, maybe Phil is dead. Based on the comments above, his funeral will have to be at United Center to make room for all who loved him. Everybody loved Phil. Hmmm. Phil must not have felt this love from you all since he committed suicide. You folks best stop loving people...your kind of love kills them.
Your a piece of shit.
DeleteMY PRAYERS TO HIS FAMILY AND HIS FIANCE'S FAMILY. WE LOVE YOU ALL AND IF YOU NEED ANYTHING PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO CALL. FAMILY FROM FL! YOU ARE ALL IN OUR PRAYERS.
ReplyDeleteCHICAGO NEWS REPORT:
THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS UPDATING!
Any updates from the police or the search at the harbor?
ReplyDeletethank you...that's the last update I've read also.
ReplyDeleteThe world did not ask you to care, and if that is the case...please keep your hurtful words and thoughts to yourself. Though you may not be grieving over this current and hopefully temporary loss, many of us are. Nothing we have said in the interest of this tragic situation interferes with your living situation...please leave this group alone so we may continue holding onto the hope we have, console one another, and search for our friend.
ReplyDeletePlease come home Phil.
ReplyDeleteI really wish a "thumbs down" feature was available so we wouldn't have to see the garbage that some people are posting. I work with Phil and, although I don't know him well, he's ALWAYS smiling and saying hello. A genuinely good guy who is outgoing and friendly to everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
ReplyDeleteThe lack of class on the "anonymous" tough guy acts going on here is the exact reason why someone with the character of Phil is being hoped and prayed for so much.
ReplyDeleteHis simple presence, smile, and good character clearly touched more lives than these individuals can only imagine their "trolling" of news articles will.
When you log off the computer no one knows you exist... Phil goes missing and an entire community and timeline of acquaintances stands still.
Thank you for magnifying the line between decency and filth. Without such ignorance, his impact wouldn't be as great.
Get home safe Phil...
Unfortunately, a body has been pulled from Belmont Harbor. Unconfirmed reports indicate the body matches Phil's description.
ReplyDeletePhil
ReplyDeleteCome back to us! The quad isnt the same without you -
Stay strong!
So incredibly sad, my prayers are with Phil’s family and loved ones.
ReplyDeleteI believe I can speak for all of your Orchard Brook friends in saying how deeply our hearts aches for you. We are here for you in whatever way you may need us. God Bless you all.
ReplyDeleteSuch a tragic accident and very heartbreaking to hear about. Praying for strength and peace for his family and friends, especially those who have to deal with the guilt of letting him go to the lakefront drunk and alone. I cannot imagine what everyone is going through at this moment in time. These tragic accidents can most often be avoided if you just watch out for your friends and don't let them go off alone to dangerous situations in the middle of the night. Continued prayers for everyone.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more, Meg. It is heartbreaking to hear these stories about ANYONE. Unfortunately, this is a prime example of what can happen when you're drunk and careless. We are not invincible. I just wish the outcome could have been different for his family, friends and fiance. Praying for you all.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers go out to all of Phils friends and family. As someone who has lost friends to early all I can say is stick together and lean on each other for support.
ReplyDeleteTo the one ignorant guy who finds it fun to prey on people who are dealing with an awful tragedy please please please go play in traffic. If you want to get on your soap box do it somewhere else. I assume that you do this regularly because you are lonely and people you know stopped listening to your idiotic rants a long time ago. I am certain the only person who hates you more than the people on this board is yourself. So keep being a tough guy hiding behind your computer..I have no doubt one day you will get what is coming to you.
I had the privilege of working with Phil at Sargent & Lundy (S&L) and he will be truly missed. He was such a great person and was always smiling. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to all of his family, friends, & co-workers.
ReplyDeleteThis is probably too soon but has anyone considered this might have been murder? I recall several instances where a young man fitting his description is found dead after leaving a bar. This might simply be a tragic accident but people should be reminded of the Smiley something killings. It's been several years so I can't recall the actual name for the killings but maybe someone on this board knows.
ReplyDelete@11:19AM: You hypocritical baboon! You start off your comments with prayers for the family and end with a post filled with hatred towards an anonymous figure that you would like to see killed. Yeah, buddy that's classy. Who's the real tough guy?
ReplyDeleteI'm sure the police are doing a full investigation and they will release a report with their findings.
ReplyDeleteI believe you are referring to the Smiley Face Killings. Now that you mentioned this I went back and looked at several articles about this and this does sound exactly like this Smiley Face theory that those 2 NYC detectives are adamant about. However, I think this is probably just a tragic accident. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
ReplyDeleteWhy are any of you even giving the rude posters here two seconds of thought? No matter how much you write to them trying to pull at the heartstrings, they won't care or stop posting the crap they post, because they are damaged people with no soul or empathy for others - and will stay that way no matter what you say. Please do not bother replying to them; by doing so, you are adding fuel to the fire they like to light (there is nothing more fun for an internet troll than someone who takes the bait and engages them in a battle). Please just pay respeces to the young man who sadly lost his life too early, and leave it at that. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThis breaks my heart and I didn't even know him or the family. Absolutely tragic and I know the family and his fiance are absolutely torn. My thoughts are with all of you!!
ReplyDeleteI don't mean to be insensitive, but why did he go to the harbor at 2 AM, alone? Did he have a boat there? Was he meeting someone at that spot? I just don't understand why anyone would go to Belmont Harbor in the dead of winter at 2 AM.
ReplyDeleteI thought the same thing. I live in Lakeview and everyone knows that you don't go there late at night by yourself. It's even more odd that he would do it in the dead of winter. Think he could have been coerced to go there to meet someone and was killed by being pushed into the water? There seems to be a lot of Chicagoans who have lived in the area their whole lives who suddenly and accidentally fall into the water and drown. I looked at the Smiley Face theory too and it sounds similar to a lot of the cases. I mean who goes to the lake the early in the morning to look at the water or go for a walk when it's extremely cold outside? I can't think of any logical reason why anyone would do that especially if you just got done drinking. Usually people say let's go eat or I'm too tired so I wanna go home after they drink and party NOT I'm going to go for a walk and look at the water.
ReplyDeleteTo the poster at 12:40PM, I was wondering the same thing. It just seems weird to me that he would go there and that his friends seemed to not think anything of it. It's also weird that he took off his coat. It was extremely cold that night. I guess these are questions that will never be answered...
ReplyDeletePraying for strength and peace for his loved ones.
To all of the family & friends who knew and loved Phil - my hopes and prayers are that you can find the strength to endure this tragedy, that you find comfort in each other and that you know that all the people in your lives are here for you in any way that you may need us.
ReplyDelete1) The fact that none of his friends thought it was weird is a clue that perhaps, for him, it wasn't. Even though it may not be something you would do, and even though it seems unwise, doesn't mean it was out of character or unusual for this young man.
ReplyDelete2) His coat was found in the water. He probably took it off in an effort to shed weight once he fell in. If you're trained in water survival, this is one of the first things you're supposed to do. Clothing holds water and weighs you down.
3) No one knows for sure that he was drunk, just that he "had been drinking". It makes me so sad that everyone just assumes stupidity and bad choices. Every single one of us has done something in our lives, probably several somethings, either accidentally or in a moment of poor judgement, which could have been tragic but fortunately wasn't Unfortunately, this was one of those moments that did turn tragic. A single moment that ended Phil's life and will forever change the lives of those who loved him. Be grateful that YOUR moments didn't end like that.
4) For a reality check, everyone should be forced to see the photo of Phil's fiancé before being allowed to post here. It's on the story in the Trib. You can't see the grief on her face and still want to post some of the things that have been posted here.
To 12:40 and Katie...I very much agree with both of you! I can see him taking off his coat if he did in fact fall into the water but all of us know who live in the area it's not that easy to just fall into the water. I don't believe he was going to the harbor to take a walk or look at the water. It's way to friggin cold. Also, if that was the case I would have said to my buddy...hey you wanna go for a walk with me? My friend would have replied hell no it's way to cold followed by ARE YOU CRAZY? Why didn't his friend think this was strange. I think he may have gone there for a reason other than taking a walk. Maybe he was trying to sell something on craigslist?
ReplyDeleteTo 12:59, I agree. Something just does not seem right. Don't you kind of have to go out of your way to get to the harbor? It's not that easily accessible, especially at that time of night in the winter.
ReplyDeleteThis story really bothers me. It's incredibly tragic and completely avoidable. Maybe it was normal for him to go to the lakefront in the winter, but it's just not normal for friends to be okay with him going alone at 2:30am after drinking (drunk or not). It's just not okay. You have to watch out for your friends. I pray that these people find some peace. I also pray for his family and fiance. I cannot imagine what they are going through.
ReplyDeleteUnless he was completely drunk I don't see how he could have accidentally fell into the water. I mean there are a lot of things he could have grabbed onto. He looks like a healthy and active young man. Could he not have clung to one of the docks and pulled himself up?
ReplyDeleteI think we can all read between the lines. He was cruising for gay sex.
ReplyDeleteIt seems like a suicide.
ReplyDeleteEveryone in the gay communities knows Belmont Harbor is cruising spot. ESPECIALLY after the bars close.
ReplyDeleteI've seen this guy before, and as hard as it may be for the family to accept, I think it's highly likely that that is why he was there that night...
ReplyDeleteI'm gay and wouldn't have been out there at the time of night for ANY purpose, especially for safety reasons. I didn't know Belmont Harbor was a "cruising spot after the bars close". Guess I'm out of the loop or just not trash. The whole city is a "cruising spot" in my opinion. It's irritating too.
ReplyDeleteNobody knows what happened but whatever did happen, it's tragic. I lived one block from there up until 2 weeks ago. It is NOT safe in that neighborhood especially at night. It has changed drastically over the past couple of years. They've got the ghetto blue light cameras up around there now. My neighbors are on lockdown (in my opinion) after 9:00pm and call me a "nightowl" because I do go out after 9:00pm.
If I have to run to the store past 11:00pm, I have mace and a wooden bat that fits up my coat sleeve.
Yes, it is THAT bad especially with the loitering and Section 8 EVERYWHERE around there.
Again, I'm sorry about this loss but this world class city IS a mess. You should be able to go out to that waterfront at anytime without safety concerns as that's what we pay these insane housing prices for. It's not worth it.
Even if he were gay and cruising. That does not answer the question as to how he ended up dead.
DeleteWere his personal belongings all accounted for? I hate to say it, but that area is NOT safe, as the poster above mentioned. Perhaps he was mugged, struggled with the attacker and ended up in the lake? I wouldn't rule it as an accident just yet...
ReplyDelete"lived with his fiance". That was a question I had. Where was she at 2:30 a.m.? Seriously. These adults here are no longer frat boys. Again, sorry about the loss but something just ain't right.
ReplyDeleteQuite frankly, I want the whole story eventually. Hopefully we will know. We NEED to know and just don't sweep this under the rug Chicago image-style.
You people are crazy. You don't know this man. If I'm going out with my guys my wife doesn't always go with me. Let the family have some peace while they wait. Don't slander people behind anonymous postings.
DeleteCompletely agree. Something big is missing from this story, and someone knows what it is.
ReplyDeleteHow did his friends know he was going to Belmont Harbor? Did he just say "See ya, guys, I'm jumping in this cab and going to the Harbor!" Wouldn't his friends be like "what are you talking about, let's just split a cab home."
ReplyDeleteSeems like someone must know more than they are willing to divulge at this instant.
these comments are ridiculous.
ReplyDeletea great guy went missing, no matter where or for whatever reason.
his family and HIS FIANCE are very distraught.
have a heart
I don't think the questions are out of line, and I think his family, friends and fiance should be asking them too. I know they are mourning, and it's completely tragic, but the story doesn't seem right. His friends and family can't possibly be okay with that.
ReplyDeleteHOLY SHIT. I never thought I would ever post on a "comments" section of any website but everyone needs to stop responding/reacting to the trolls and not making assumptions as to what happened. I don't know this man, but each of us on this earth is connected and I am sending positive vibes to his friends and family. A man is dead, people. Let's celebrate his life, mourn his death, but above all else, not make blind assumptions as to what/why/how happened. Leave that to the investigators...
ReplyDeleteHad the opportunity to work with Phil although I did not know him well. He was a great guy by all accounts. Unfortunately, his life ended tragically too early, but that doesn't mean that he is gone. I hope that those close to him realize that he will always be with them. Celebrate everything about him, and continue to remember him no matter how hard it may be at times. Take something from his life that you admired and apply it to yours. Also, use the tragic end to remind yourself to never take those close to you for granted.
ReplyDeleteI wish that Phil's family and friends find some comfort in this terrible time.
To whomever posted at 2:24pm, I could not agree with you more! I too have never posted on a comments section until today, but I've been checking for updates on Philip (I live near Belmont Harbor and saw the commotion yesterday afternoon). I don't know Philip personally but it seems like two things are definitely true - (1) everyone who knew him and has written about him says he was a WONDERFUL human being, and (2) his fiance, family and friends are heartbroken. I don't understand how anyone could write such disrespectful or mean comments on here, but luckily for the rest of us, 99% of the people who will hear about this story will feel compassion. ~Kelly
ReplyDeleteI agree with the above post not to feed the trolls, but these selfish assholes need to learn that what they are saying is unwelcome and completely uncalled for. I just hope for their sakes that they are immature teenage brats and not adults, because if they are our society is in serious trouble. Its people like yourselves that give the city a bad name.
ReplyDeleteNo one knows exactly what happened so why don't you keep your ideas to yourself because most of you sound stupid.
I think it's funny that all you who are saying don't feed the trolls are the ones feeding the trolls by saying don't feed the trolls. Um...as for the other civil discussions going on...I think it's perfectly okay to ask these sort of questions. We should know if he was killed by a serial killer (smile face theory) or mugged by a gang thug or simply fell into the water. I don't care if he was gay or if he was cruising. Like one poster said his sexuality is not what I am concerned with it's how he died. I want to know because I live across the street from Belmont Harbor was it a murder, an accident or a suicide.
ReplyDeleteBeen following the story, I don't know Phil, but I just can't imagine how his family and fiance are dealing. Just a terrible, terrible, tragedy. I hope they are able to find solace in celebrating what sounds like a wonderful person and a wonderful life.
ReplyDeleteThis is reliable news reporting site. I've obtained the WHOLE story here in the past for my own benefit. Some of the comments are uncalled for, no doubt. If you want the watered down, day late/dollar short, Chicago image upholding version, try the Trib. If you don't like the comments, don't read them. I couldn't imagine losing a loved one and this quickly perusing and commenting on forums. Mind boggling to me.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, we are entitled to the truth.
If he was suicidal, there should have been signals.
If he were cruising for gay sex, not only are there gay bars open til 5:00am, there is also the beloved Steamworks open 24/7, everyone is i.d.'d as I've been told. Now let's take it a step further and hunt each other down like animals searching for their prey at the waterfront. I'm gay. That subhuman behavior here is sick.
"They" also go for sucker punches direct to the temple to knock you out. This is known. I was a victim of it inland right around the corner there at 10pm but it didn't work. There is a hatred for White men here, gay or straight, that I've never experienced anywhere else.
The open air drug dealing here is rampant. Show no shame.
If he was that drunk and fell in the water, yes, Lord have mercy.
Again, sorry for your loss. He had no business being out there at that time. The lakefront "closes" at 11pm. There are signs posted. I was chased off it on my bike by the cops a little further north last summer at 9:45 "because there are criminals out here ya know". I told him to "go find them, I'm riding my bike".
Great place to live. Not.
(3:21PM Post) I think we can all understand how the bizarre disappearance of someone in our neighborhood can be puzzling and it's only human nature to wonder what went on, especially so we have a sense of safety. But many people in here are making accusations, (e.g. the comment "Alcohol and night swimming! It's a winning combination!) and those assumptions are entirely inappropriate. In time, we will know what happened, but I don't think it's fair to assume what went on and to point fingers at friends, family, or even Philip himself.
ReplyDeleteI disagree with your statement that saying "ignore the trolls" is in essence "feeding" the trolls; reminding people to "ignore the trolls" is the equivalent of telling a bullied student to ignore someone who is calling them names. Sooner or later, in most cases, the bully will give up.
Tssss.... Sounds like he had a bit more than cold feet or somethin... tsssss
ReplyDeleteSadly, he was up to no good.
ReplyDeleteHe was either meeting a girl down there, or (more likely) he was cruising. It's a popular location for gay guys to cruise -- because really, who takes a walk along the lakefront at 2:30am in winter?
Murder, suicide, accident, clandestine meeting? ...could it be that Phil & his fiancee had a spat, and he went to the lakefront to try to find his own inner peace? Otherwise, as others have said, why wouldn't he go home to his fiancee rather than heading off to the potentially-dangerous lakefront in the middle of a frigid night?
ReplyDeleteHis friends knew he was going to cruise for dudes. That's why it wasn't suspect that he was headed to Belmont Harbor at 2:30am in the winter.
ReplyDeleteIt's a shame the fiancee had to find out this way, unless she knew he was bisexual. Either way, it must have been an awkward convo with the friends yesterday.
The guy just wanted some cock, and because he hid his dirty work from the girlfriend, now he's an ice cube.
ReplyDeleteSad. :(
A few years back there was a crazy skinhead looking guy that got arrested for pushing someone into the lake. As I remember, he pushed an older asian gentleman from behind, while he was fishing. He was arrested and got jail time, but with cook county court systems he might be out already...
ReplyDeleteI think uptown update had a story on him SEVERAL years ago.
Did his friend know he was going to Belmont Harbor, or did he tell THEM he was going to the lake? The cops could have found out he went to Belmont Harbor AFTER they interviewed the cabdriver.
ReplyDeleteLake or Belmont Harbor doesn't matter. It's well-known code for "cruising for guys" when it's 2:30am and bitterly cold.
ReplyDelete"A few years back there was a crazy skinhead looking guy that got arrested for pushing someone into the lake."
ReplyDeleteI remember that story and you have raised an interesting point.
I think it's ridiculous, all the people assuming that he was cruising. I realize it's very popular in that area, but just two weeks ago, I took a walk to the lakefront at 1am to clear my head--not to unload my heterosexual penis, nor did I receive any offers. What's with all the assumptions?
ReplyDeleteCruising seems to be a real possibility. Don't think so? What red-blooded healthy male wouldn't want to be in bed with his girlfriend/fiancee on a cold night? ...unless a few drinks ...maybe an argument ...awakened some other feelings in Phil, and he went looking to satisfy his other urges. It happens.
ReplyDeleteOtherwise, the 'walk on the lakefront' theory makes NO SENSE whatsoever. Nature lover? So what, no one who knows Chicago would head over there, at that time, on a bitteerly cold night, unless somethign else was going on.
The punk pushed the senior Asian fisherman that couldn't swim into the Montrose Harbor. From what I understand that was a recurring problem but that one just couldn't swim. It wasn't a young guy like the subject that supposedly was very active.
ReplyDeleteNo, the walk on the lakefront makes absolutely no sense. I'm gay, lived there for more than 2 years and hadn't a clue there was supposedly so much "activity" out there but wouldn't be surprised. Not my thing even if there was.
Was he actually on the lakefront and drifted to the harbor or actually fell into the harbor? Or is that unknown? That "harbor" is calm, there are breakwalls there. Lots to grab onto, drift to, and pull yourself out if in shape even if tipsy. Sorry, I don't get it.
You would have to be trying to fall into the lake from where he went. It really makes no sense, but people do stupid shit all the time.
ReplyDeleteIve made late night lake trips before, not looking for action, just as an insomniac, and Ive never seen another person, policeman or otherwise.
This is very sad. However, previous posters raise some valid questions. There is nothing good that comes at that place @ 2:30 am. Something happened. We probably will never know what happened... but it wasn't just an "accident".
ReplyDeleteI keep hearing that he took a taxi there, But i have not heard any info about the Taxi Driver i find that strange.. Maybe the Taxi Driver has some info to share.
ReplyDeleteI've went to middle school and high school with Phil. I have not seen him since high school but I will NEVER forget his constant smile and attitude in general about life. He was an amazing person and he will not be forgotten. I have not seen him in almost 10 years and this truly touches me on the deepest level. I hope his friends and family can ultimately not blame themselves for what happend. This was a terrible tragedy and I hope everyone realizes just how precious life is. Phil was a great guy and I'll never forget his ear to ear smile. I never saw Phil frown once and I hope we all can live our lives like Phil lived his. My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family.
ReplyDeletemany of the smiley face victims were last seen in a taxi or speaking with people at the bar they did not know. If I were the family, I would request to speak with the taxi driver and everyone who was at the bar that night. It could be that someone slipped something in his drink too. Very unusual for so many men in college or college graduates who are found in rivers and lakes. From my count, 225 in the US/Canada in the last 10 years.
ReplyDeleteso around 22 drunk dudes drowning a year is suspicious?
ReplyDeleteSad and strange story but young people, especially intoxicated ones, do ridiculous things all the time. Intoxication makes people feel invincible-we've all been there. Friday night was very windy. The lake is very dark. I don't think it's that hard to believe that he might have wanted to listen to the waves, and he got off balance and tripped and then was unable to navigate out of it before the cold overtook him. As a mom of a son, there but for the grace of God go I. Peace to Phil and his family.
ReplyDelete"We've all been there"???????
ReplyDeleteI've been intoxicated but never so intoxicated that I decided to go to the lakeshore at 2:30AM by myself and got so close to the lake that I ended up in it. No normal person does that.
Agreed!!
Delete2:30am. Drunk. Trolling for sausage.
ReplyDeleteIt's sad that his life ended this way, but perhaps if he was more honest and open about his life, he wouldn't need to take such desperate measures that involve cruising for cock on the lake at 2:30am on a bitterly cold winter night.
You're a scumbag.
DeleteThis is very chilling, on the front page of aol and huffington post today. A University of Wiscosin student Eric Duffy was last seen on Saturday leaving a Bar at 1:15am where he was partying with friends that night and he was found Sunday in the river dead. Please people read up on this artice its almost identical to this case in chicago.. This is very strange please be careful if you are going out to bars and dont leave alone or let your friends leave alone drunk. I hope all of this is being checked into because something is happening..
ReplyDelete"I hope all of this is being checked into because something is happening..."
ReplyDeleteYes, what's happening is that drunk guys are falling into the water, or possibly having late-night sexual encounters & ending up at the lake. Let's not bring a phantom bogie-man mass murderer into this.
How is it identical? Moron gets drunk, gets too close to water, dies? OH MY GOD! SERIAL KILLER ON THE LOOSE
ReplyDeleteOne thing that seems possible is that Phil was having second thoughts about getting married.
ReplyDeleteIf Columbo were still alive, he would be asking the fiancee: "Miss - could you tell me what was the last thing you and Phil talked about?"
Some of you are despicable! I can't believe I'm goingto entertain any of this, but I'm so sick of the bullshit comments... Yeah, real likely he friggin drowned himself in an icy lake over cold feet! You have got to be kidding me?! Cold and heartless! As if Selena isn't already in so much pain you're going to make an accusation like that? They have been together for YEARS... You don't know them or their relationship so shut your mouth! While I fully support all of our 'right to free speech' I think some people need to understand that everything they say isn't 'right' or acceptable. I don't care what you may be thinking about the situation, you need to learn when to shut the hell up. Sometimes kindness and compassion are more important than your 'right' to spew bullshit from behind your keyboard.
ReplyDeleteAgreed! Life isn't a joke people. You need your heads checked. How would you feel if this was one of your family members??!?? Some of you people are sick.
ReplyDeleteSo Sad. Prayers go out to all. I was wondering did they find his wallet or cell phone on him? If not then could be foul play.
ReplyDeleteWhat a tragedy. Praying for the fiancee and his family and friends. Sounds like he was loved.
ReplyDeleteWhy is it that only young college aged or slighly older guys end up drinking and falling into the water? I mean millions of men each week drink but don't end up in the water dead? Something sounds really fishy to me.
ReplyDeleteWhy don't the "family and friends" want to know what really happened? They seem to think that burying their heads in the sand and "praying" is the answer. The whole situation is VERY weird. An intoxicated man goes to a secluded, freezing, desolate spot on the lakefront in the middle of the night and ends up drowned and nobody wonders how or why???
ReplyDeleteA lesson to all men:
ReplyDeleteDon't let your closeted bisexual buddy wander down to troll for penis at 2:30am after a night of drinking; especially in the winter.
Time to shut this down. I'm sure none of Phil's family will be reading any of this.
ReplyDeleteHis friends will have their chance to express their condolences at his funeral service.
The problem with an open forum like this is that cowards hiding in the shadows can spew such vitriol.
Those same cowards are the type that live a degenerate lifestyle where they would go 'cruising' for anonymous
sex at the lakefront in the wee hours of the morning, and try to drag the good name of normal people through
the mud in order to somehow rationalize their own depraved existence.
This was not Phil.
Time to move on, let the snakes crawl back in their holes.
If I was a friend or family member, I would want to know WHY he drowned.
ReplyDeleteNo, we haven't "all been there". Accidents happen but some can go out and have a few drinks, fun and be responosible too. From an "outsiders" point of view, the bars here WAY overserve people for the sake of a $ knowing they'll be cabbing it or walking. Usually makes for awkward moments, disinhibition beyond reproach and non-fun out there.
ReplyDeleteHe was no longer a "college student" or "college grad". He's now a 28 y.o. grown man and as a cop was chastised for blaming a victim in that area in the past as "looking for monkey business" - that's what he was doing too. Shouldn't have happened but there's personal accountability that should not be overlooked either.
I'm sorry about the family and friends but if I were them, I wouldn't be reading these comments anyway but they obviously have some questions too.
For all those who were "praying"...does this mean God didn't hear your prayers or ignored them?
ReplyDeleteGosh...I really don't care if he was out cruising, out for a walk, out to rob someone...I don't care. People keep saying he was out cruising for gay sex...well okay...but that has nothing to do with him being dead. Was he waiting for a hookup and someone else stumbled upon him and killed him? Was it a Smiley Face killing, did he have an accident..and if so...how could this accident have happened??
ReplyDeleteThank you for saying exactly what I'm thinking. Whatever phil's reason for being there makes no difference. What matters is that this kind loving human being is gone. It is a mystery but all that matters now is hope that his loved ones can cope...
DeleteI think 'God' needs to step up & 'splain Himself, like the All-Powerful Deity He supposedly is.
ReplyDeleteLike as in ...God, where were You when this happened? You seem to have followers who are willing to 'pray' to You, and give money to You, and they expect a little courtesy in return. At least let us know why You did respond & Your answer was "NO!"
"all that matters now is hope that his loved ones can cope..."?????????
ReplyDeleteHow ignorant and oblivious can you be?
What MATTERS is finding out WHY he is dead.
There are thousands of people who live in the neighborhood who want to know if there is a murdering nig on the loose.
Ignorant jagoff.
Death ruled a drowning. No sign of foul play. All identification, phone, credit cards in his pockets. End of story. Good guy. Bad decision. Sad family and friends. He will be missed.
ReplyDeletewas it suicide? Like has been said, you would have to fucking try to fall in there. What a fucking idiot.
ReplyDeleteShut the Hell up,,, Whitney Houston Died in the water and so did he,,,,,, who cares. Not one of you knows what really happened so why all the talk about nothing.
ReplyDeleteWhitney Huston was a crack addict, was Phil boy here hitting the hubbaz at the harbor?
ReplyDeleteNow he's being compared to some nig crackho?
ReplyDelete"was it suicide? Like has been said, you would have to fucking try to fall in there..."
ReplyDeleteHere's where Phil's "friends" need to explain what really happened that night. Was there an argument? Did he seem despondent? DIid he have a fight with his fiancee? These are all things the public needs to know, to be able to feel safe again.
"Shut the Hell up,,, Whitney Houston Died in the water and so did he,,,,,, who cares"
ReplyDeleteAnonymous - what a waste of commas!
God has no time for this, he caught Linsanity.
ReplyDeleteMy intuition tells me he was cruising for gay sex and something went amiss. No one goes to Belmont Harbor at 2:30 a.m. to go "look in the water" and then "slips".
ReplyDeleteYeah...I find it hard to believe that he would be somewhat sober and WANT to go down there just for a walk or look at the water. It was really cold that morning. I find it hard to believe that he fell into the water by accident...unless he was completely and totally drunk.
ReplyDeletePrayers for Phil and his family.
ReplyDelete@10:28pm. Whitney Houston died from alcohol, Xanax and Valium intoxication (that coincidentally happened in the water - in a bath tub - but it will be ruled "accidental" as well). Unfortunately, from the way it looks, Phil died similarly.
ReplyDeleteHarsh, but unfortunately Phil wasn't that "one helluva guy" everyone thought he was unless somebody who knows more wants to speak up. A wake up call for all to be responsible, especially his age. I would hate for my loved ones to have to read about this happening to me. They won't however. I remember when I was about 25 talking to a guy outside a gay bar at 2:15am in a not so great urban area and saying "we owe it to our family not to be found dead here". "Thank You!" was his response as we went on our way.
These "kids" need to be taught more responsibility. In my line of business, I can't believe the parents still calling from out of state setting up absolutely everything for these 25-33 year old "kids". They are adults now. They were adults when they were 18. Chicago isn't quite that "world class city" you thought you were sending your "kids" off to.
WOW...you know what killed Whitney Houston??? I guess you know more than anyone. I would rather wait to see what the experts come back and say caused her death. Your post is very weird and hard to follow. It's all over the place - from Whitney Houston --> one helluva guy --> Responsibility -> world class city.
ReplyDeleteAll i know is starting today i will be wearing a life jacket when i take a bath or go to the lakefront just as a precaution.
ReplyDelete@ Anon 10:09. Obviously, you can't follow the simple thread here bucko. Learn to read.
ReplyDeleteIt's already been stated what killed Whitney Houston but they are "waiting for confirmation from toxicology reports". Those "in the know", know. Most people here are dumb and are underdeveloped for their age though. That much is understood
Yeah, "world class city" where you allow people to become so intoxicated that they go fall in the lake or are murdered.
I'm not Chicago detective by any means, but out of curiosity, about an hour ago, I followed (on my bike) the point where Mr. Patnaude was last scene (Wellington/Broadway) to the spot near where they found the body, and it's a pretty straight path, only about 20 yards from where they think he drowned. ...... What's interesting about this is when you enter the area, all you see is the unfenced dock edge and the floating docks beyond that. Most likely, he wanted to go sit out on the docks. But do so would require climbing around the half-circle security gate that keeps people from going down the ramp that leads out to those docks. I can see how a 20-something person with enough "beer muscles" and impaired sense of judgement could think they could swing their body around that and get on the down ramp. There are a couple of metal "handles" that a person could grip and use to swing themselves around. The problem is, if you lose that grip and not make it all the way around the half-circle security gate, you are most definitely going to fall in the water! The problem is once you are in, there really nowhere to climb out. Plus in that frigid freezing water, a person would probably be so shocked from the cold that they would be too disoriented to swim toward the floating dock, much less climb out of it. It's clearly very dangerous (I imagine the city will put something near the water so people could climb out). I did watch the party video and read the comments about the guy's sexuality (whatever it was). Well, I am not convinced, and after following the path today, he seemed clearly intent of taking in the view of Belmont Harbor. (What a beautiful view it must be sitting out on one of those docks!) He was heading for the lake, literally. I don't blame people for rushing to the conclusion that he went to the lake cruising for gay sex, and I don't blame you if you think I am overlooking that possible scenario. ... Why it seems he already had his jacket off before he went in, maybe he was using that in his climbing endeavor. I really don't think a person would have the time or sense to remove their jacket when they've fallen in freezing water. I've done foolish and risky behavior like this in my 20's and under the influence. A few times could've ended up perilous. So.... this is just my opinion, take it or leave it. My condolences to the family. - Coyote
ReplyDelete^ you are f***ing brilliant!!
ReplyDeleteI agree that your post does not make much sense. It is indeed all over the place and I can read pretty well. "People in the know"? LOL! Let's revisit this and see if they say the cause of her death was because of Xanax. This shows your lack of intelligence.
ReplyDelete"Very unusual for so many men in college or college graduates who are found in rivers and lakes. From my count, 225 in the US/Canada in the last 10 years."
ReplyDeleteInteresting that Anonymous has a hobby of counting young dead men ...next thing he'll say is that he counted their toes & they had 2,250.
"God has no time for this, he caught Linsanity. "
ReplyDeletelol, Anonymous! So God is a Knicks' fan...
"Very unusual for so many men in college or college graduates who are found in rivers and lakes. From my count, 225 in the US/Canada in the last 10 years."
ReplyDeleteInteresting that Anonymous has a hobby of counting young dead men ...next thing he'll say is that he counted their toes & they had 2,250
LOL good one Carmac, though this person got the stats RE: 20 something aged men drowning from the websites for the Smiley Face Gang conspiracy theory.
I was a student at a major midwest university when two of the guys mentioned on those sites went missing, and eventually turned up dead.
As tragic as those deaths were, I have serious issues believing that they're the work of some underground, national gang that preys on drunken frat boys.
At my school, a river cut right through the middle of campus, and besides the two guys in four years who drowned in it, several guys (and girls) each year fell in & had to be rescued. The campus actually had emergency phones at both ends of every bridge over the river!
It's unfortunate, but when people get plastered drunk, and often are using drugs to, they black out & do dumb things. Frankly, I'm thankful that I never went over the edge, I crossed those bridges flat-out wasted enough times.
To believe that an average of 22 deaths by drowning per year is some type of a pattern is a stretch of the imagination, any way you look at it. There are millions of 20 something men who binge drink in the US & Canada. Accidents happen, especially when people are drunk.
Here, I believe that the guy was drunk, and was screwing around near the water, lost his balance, & went in. If he had gone around the barriers that are up there to prevent this from happening, there is maybe 12 inches of concrete for him to stand on. On a cold, windy night, after hours & hours of drinking, I can see how that would have happened.
@2:33. Sorry your diva, pride and joy died sweetie. She was a junkie and killed herself with both illegal and prescription drugs (oops, don't forget the alcohol). It's already been concluded there wasn't enough water in her lungs to have drowned. The alcohol, Xanax and Valium halted her respiratory system. There's always Lady Gaga for you now.
ReplyDelete"Death ruled a drowning. No sign of foul play."
ReplyDeleteBefore Chicago's Finest close the book on this case, have they really considered every angle? I mean, we all saw "the Fugitive" (filmed in Chi-Town!) where there was a rush to justice & an innocent man was almost put to death.
One possibility that needs to be considered is corporate malfeasance. By chance, were any of Phil's drinking 'buddies' that night Sargent & Lundy co-workers or managers? Maybe Phil stumbled on a big secret, like S&L was planning to build a nuke plant right on top of a nuclear fault line [side bar: this did actually happen; the Trojan Nuclear Plant in Oregon was shut down & S&L employees had to be pulled out after the shutdown].
So ...is it possible one of them slipped something into Phil's drink, then offered him cab fare to the lake to find a 'partner' for the night? Why would S&L do this? Maybe Phil was about to blow the whistle on their operations. Sound crazy? Then maybe you haven't seen "The China Syndrome".
I rest my case.
Did "S&L" do a thorough background check on him before hiring? Doesn't do much for their PR (whoever the H they are). I'll bet he had at least a 3.5 GPA high as a kite though, right?
ReplyDeleteDid S&L (again, whoever the H they are) consider that Mommy and Daddy just sent him on his way and paid for his college to get them out of their face for 4 years cuz they couldn't deal with him?
Need to get back to character references and not just computer credit scores before hiring.
Anyway, thanks for exposing this Tim. It's long overdue. I see where you're coming from and where we're going.
Thanks Coyote - out of all the theories that have been presented here, yours is the best. Phil is a young man, physically fit and drinking. It makes sense he would went to get out on the docks to get a view of the city and get away from it all. I imagine the view from the docks is amazing. The docks present a secure place of solitude. While hopping the fence may be illegal, it also provides a certain security (more safe than being in the park), plus it is a place of solitude in a very busy city. And, I imagine the air was fresh off the lake.
ReplyDeletePhil was an adventurer. He backpacked Canada, traveling Europe and snowboarded the Rockies. I could see a simple slip while crossing the fence, the resulting confusion, the darkness, the alcohol, and as you mentioned, there not being very many places to climb out of Belmont Harbor. It makes sense Phil took off his coat, as I bet it was very hard to swim in and he could buy a new one. I'm sure he tried to get out of the water the way he got in, it's only common sense to do so. Perhaps after realizing he couldn't get out that way, he attempted to swim for the docks or some other exit. Unfortunately, hypothermia sets in very quickly. The water temperature of Lake Michigan is around 60, the the air temperature was around 30 with gusting winds that night. Complicating matters, alcohol acts as a vasodilator, drawing blood towards the skin.
Perhaps Phil overestimated his own strength (this young man did not know many physical bounds), perhaps he had no other option but to swim for it, perhaps alcohol clouded his judgment. One thing is for sure, within just a few minutes in Lake Michigan, his body would have been pulling blood away from his extremities and towards his internal organs. His hands and feet would have become numb and unable to grasp, his arms and legs would have gotten heavy, and he would have eventually become sleepy.
I'm sure he did not want to die. I'm sure he thought of his fiance, family and friends and just wish he could have explained what happened. I'm sure he wished he could have turned back time.
He's in a better place now. Drowning is a peaceful death. Phil was a fun loving guy and lived life with zest and vigor. He'd expect us to all do the same.
@March 8, 2012 8:36 PM
ReplyDeleteDude your high as a giraffes ass