Police were investigating but do not suspect foul play after a 51-year-old man was found dead in a wooded area known as “tent city” in Woodstock, officials said.
The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District and Woodstock Police Department responded around 6 p.m. Wednesday to the area of the Shell gas station, 110 North Eastwood Drive in Woodstock, for an unresponsive person call.
Woodstock Deputy Police Chief Ray Lanz said it was reported that an unresponsive male was found in the wooded area behind the gas station.
Dispatch received a 911 call from a citizen who happened to be traversing in the area and discovered the victim, Lanz said.
Fire department radio traffic indicated the bystander went to the Jewel-Osco nearby to alert the authorities.
Officers arrived and found a 51-year-old man who was confirmed deceased at the scene, Lanz said.
The incident occurred at a homeless encampment commonly known as “tent city.”
An investigation found no suspicious circumstances and there were no obvious signs as to the cause of the death, Lanz said.
Investigators learned the man had numerous medical ailments but it is unclear whether those played a role in the death.
The McHenry County Coroner’s Office was notified and arrived at the scene to take possession of the victim.
The coroner’s office was conducting its own investigation but the Woodstock Police Department’s investigation has been marked as completed, Lanz said.