The body of a Chicago special education teacher, missing for ten days, has been recovered from Lake Michigan in what authorities have ruled an apparent suicide.
A Quiet Night Ends in Tragedy
Linda Brown, 53, spent a quiet evening at home with her husband, Antwon, on January 2. The couple watched a movie before she went to bed early at their home in the Bronzeville neighbourhood. When Antwon awoke the next morning, his wife had vanished.
Initially believing she had gone to a standing acupuncture appointment in Wicker Park, concern grew when she failed to appear. Her blue 2021 Honda Civic was later discovered near East 35th Street and South Lake Park Avenue. Surveillance footage revealed the teacher parking her car and walking across a bridge towards the lake at 3am on the day she disappeared.
A Lifelong Struggle with Mental Health
In the wake of the tragedy, Brown's family has spoken openly about her lifelong battle with mental health. Her niece, Jen Rivera, explained that her aunt's condition had been deteriorating in the period leading up to her disappearance, resulting in near-daily panic attacks.
"I wish she knew how much of an impact she had and how much she was loved," Rivera told the Chicago Tribune. Brown had sought professional help and was receiving treatment at the time. She had even taken time off from her job at Robert Healy Elementary School for her mental health but was planning to return for the new term.
Her husband, Antwon, told CBS News that as the start of school approached, her anxiety appeared to worsen. On Christmas Day, Rivera had a heartfelt conversation with her aunt, who confessed she was "really struggling."
Community Mourns a Cherished Educator
After an extensive search, Chicago Police marine units recovered Brown's body from the water on Monday. The Cook County Medical Examiner's office conducted an autopsy, determining the cause of death as drowning in an apparent suicide.
Her family released a statement expressing profound grief and gratitude. "This is not the outcome we were hoping or praying for, but we are grateful that she has been found and can now be brought home," they said.
The loss has sent shockwaves through the school and local community. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson offered condolences, stating Brown "made an immeasurable impact on countless young lives" as a special education teacher and was a "vital member of the Bridgeport community."
The Chicago Teachers' Union also shared its deepest sympathies, urging members in need to utilise mental health resources through the Employee Assistance Program. "Please check in on your coworkers," the union urged. "Just as we keep each other safe, we get each other through."
Jen Rivera remembered her aunt as "a light that burned out too soon," with an incredible personality and a memorable laugh. The family now hopes to spread awareness, emphasising that those struggling should never feel ashamed to seek help, even if current treatment feels insufficient.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US on 988. Support is also available online at 988lifeline.org.
