Trucking Company Owner's Death Ruled A Homicide, Warrant Issued

CRESTWOOD, IL — The Cook County Medical Examiner has determined that the owner of a trucking company found deceased in Crestwood died as a result of neck injuries from a “sharp or pointed” object. The man’s death has been ruled a homicide, Crestwood police said in an update.

Charges are pending for a suspect who is in police custody in Michigan. Details are being worked out for extradition back to Illinois.

Just after 4 p.m. Wednesday, Crestwood police and firefighters responded to a call of heavy smoke at ATG Truckload, 13855 S. Kostner Ave.

After firefighters put out a small fire, the body of the owner, identified as 48-year-old Dane Koteski, was found on the second floor of the building amid heavy smoke. Koteski is listed as president and CEO on the trucking company’s website.

Crestwood police and the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force was activated an investigation. The Illinois State Fire Marshall also responded to the scene to start an arson investigation.

Over the next several hours, investigators were able to develop and follow up on numerous leads. A suspect was identified, and investigators determined that he worked for Koteski.

The suspect was eventually located in a truck stop in Holland, about 145 miles from Crestwood. Police said the task force notified the Holland Police Department, who took the suspect in custody around 5:15 a.m. Thursday.

An arrest warrant has been issued for the suspect, who is currently in custody of the Ottawa County Sheriff in Michigan. Charges are pending.