A body was recovered from the Chicago River on Thursday afternoon, February 12, 2026, prompting a death investigation by Chicago Police. The discovery, made near the 2700 block of South Ashland Avenue, was reported around 1:19 p.m. By the Chicago Fire Department Marine Unit, according to police statements.
The identity of the woman remains unknown at this time. Authorities have stated that an autopsy is pending to determine the cause and manner of death. Area One detectives are currently leading the investigation.
The recovery occurred on the city’s Southwest Side, an area encompassing neighborhoods like Pilsen and Heart of Chicago. While the location is near South Ashland Avenue, the broader context of the surrounding community is currently not part of the official police investigation details released.
The incident comes amidst ongoing concerns about safety along the Chicago River, a waterway that sees both recreational and commercial traffic. While the riverfront has undergone significant development in recent years, attracting residents and businesses, issues related to security and accessibility remain a focus for city officials.
The Chicago Fire Department’s Marine Unit played a crucial role in the recovery operation. This specialized unit is responsible for responding to emergencies on the city’s waterways, including rescues, fire suppression, and the recovery of submerged objects or individuals. Their involvement highlights the logistical challenges of operating in an urban river environment.
The lack of immediate information regarding the woman’s age or any identifying details underscores the initial stages of the investigation. Police have not released any information that might suggest the circumstances surrounding her death, emphasizing the need for a thorough and careful examination of the evidence.
This incident is one of several recent cases drawing attention to safety concerns in the city. News reports from earlier in the week detailed a separate incident involving a burglary on the Southwest Side, and ongoing investigations into business burglaries on the North Side. While these cases are unrelated, they contribute to a broader narrative of crime and safety challenges facing Chicago.
The ongoing death investigation is a reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist even in urban environments. The Chicago Police Department is urging anyone with information related to this case to come forward. As of Friday, February 13, 2026, no further details have been released to the public, and the investigation remains active.
The discovery also echoes other recent, unrelated cases reported in the news. Reports from New York City detail the discovery of thirteen bodies and seventeen boxes of remains in an unlicensed funeral home, and a Missouri woman’s body was found decomposing in an apartment, leading to a murder charge. These cases, while geographically distant and distinct, highlight a concerning trend of investigations involving unidentified remains.
The ABC7 Chicago streaming channel is providing continuous coverage of local news, including updates on this developing story. Viewers can access the stream on various platforms, including phones, computers, Peacock, Samsung, Roku, and Xumo.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to release further information regarding the woman’s identity and the circumstances surrounding her death. The autopsy results will be a critical component in determining the next steps in the investigation and potentially bringing closure to this tragic event.
