New Developments in Legal Battle Over Body of Woman Found Dead in South Loop High-Rise
Cook County Judge Rules Parents Can Take Possession of Caitlin Tracey’s Remains
A Cook County judge has made a ruling in the legal battle over the body of 36-year-old Caitlin Tracey, who was found dead in the stairwell of her husband’s luxury South Loop high-rise last month.
Judge Eve Reilly’s Ruling
During an emergency hearing on Friday, Judge Eve Reilly ruled that Caitlin’s grieving parents, Andrew and Monica Tracey, would be able to take possession of her body, which has been at the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office since her death in October.
Beckerink’s Efforts to Block Custody Unsuccessful
Caitlin’s husband, Adam Beckerink, through his lawyers, had unsuccessfully fought the Traceys’ efforts to take custody of the body. The medical examiner has still not released a cause of death as Chicago police continue their investigation.
Investigation Ongoing
On October 27, just before 7:30 p.m., Chicago police investigators responded to a luxury hi-rise condo in the 1200 block of South Prairie Avenue, where Beckerink lived. Witnesses told police that Caitlin’s body was found just below her husband’s condo unit. The 36-year-old’s severed foot was reportedly discovered at the bottom of a stairwell. More than two weeks have passed since her body was found, but police are still classifying the incident as a “death investigation.” Forensic experts are said to be investigating the matter with Chicago police, but a cause of death for Caitlin has not yet been determined.
Attorney’s Statement
“Finally, the Tracey family can close this chapter and focus on mourning Caitlin’s loss and on celebrating her remarkable life,” attorney Andrew Cunniff said Friday.
Conclusion
The ruling allows Caitlin’s parents to take possession of her body and begin the process of saying goodbye. The investigation into her death remains ongoing, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
FAQs
Q: What was the ruling in the legal battle over Caitlin Tracey’s body?
A: Cook County Judge Eve Reilly ruled that Caitlin’s parents, Andrew and Monica Tracey, can take possession of her body.
Q: Why did Adam Beckerink, Caitlin’s husband, fight the Traceys’ efforts to take custody of the body?
A: Beckerink’s lawyers had unsuccessfully fought the Traceys’ efforts to take custody of the body.
Q: What is the current status of the investigation into Caitlin’s death?
A: The investigation is ongoing, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
