Father of Five Found Deceased in Reservoir After Going Missing
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The body of a father of five has been discovered in a reservoir near Chicago, where he was last seen swimming. The authorities were alerted to a “water emergency” at the Wood Dale/Itasca Reservoir on the evening of Tuesday, August 5. According to a news release from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, the search operation commenced following this incident. Wood Dale Fire Protection District responded to a report and video depicting a person in the reservoir around 7 p.m. local time on Tuesday, as reported by NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV.
Reports from witnesses indicated that a man, accompanied by a woman, was seen swimming in the water before cries for help were heard. Swimming is prohibited in the reservoir, and the authorities emphasized this fact. The missing individual was tragically found deceased the evening after the incident. The victim has been identified as 52-year-old Hipólito “Polo” Hernandez by his family.
Polo Hernandez, a father of five, was visiting the area and authorities confirmed his body was recovered from the reservoir. His sister, Celia Hernandez, mentioned that Polo resided close by in Bensenville and had a penchant for swimming in ponds. The tragic incident occurred after Polo and his girlfriend, Vanessa Del Rio, had been drinking on the shore. Despite warnings from a passerby, Polo went into the water, where he encountered difficulties and ultimately went under.
According to Celia, the reservoir held special significance for Polo, who considered it his “happy place.” Polo’s body was located about a day after he went missing. Describing Polo as a man who cherished playing the tuba and being a father to children aged between 16 and 35, Celia expressed the family’s shock and disbelief over the incident. The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County announced that the area where the reservoir is situated would reopen with regular operating hours after the search and recovery efforts.
The authorities extended their deepest condolences to Polo’s family and expressed gratitude to all agencies involved in the search operation. The tragic loss of Polo Hernandez has left his loved ones shattered and struggling to come to terms with the sudden turn of events. The peaceful surroundings of the reservoir, which held happy memories for Polo, have now become a site of sorrow and mourning for his family and friends.
Cases like these serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of adhering to safety regulations in recreational areas. The heartbreaking story of Polo Hernandez underscores the fragility of life and the devastating impact of unexpected tragedies on families. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved father, son, and sibling, they also reflect on the cherished memories shared with Polo, keeping his spirit alive in their hearts.
The news of Polo’s tragic demise has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of support and sympathy for his grieving family. The untimely loss of a loved one in such circumstances serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment spent with family and friends. The memory of Polo Hernandez will endure in the hearts of those who knew him, as they navigate this difficult period of mourning and remembrance.