Friends Remember UIC Student Found In Lake, Boyfriend Still Missing

CHICAGO — The University of Illinois-Chicago student whose body was pulled from Lake Michigan this week is being remembered by friends as a caring, ambitious friend who was an independent and adventurous person with a bright future.

Natally Brookson, 22, who lived in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, was found dead earlier this week after she was pulled from the lake, police officials said. The UIC senior was studying psychology and had been reported missing since April 30 along with her boyfriend.

The Cook County Coroner’s Office said Brookson’s death remains under investigation and that the cause and manner of death are still pending, the coroner said.

Brookson’s boyfriend, Daniel Sotelo, remains missing. Sotello, 26, was last seen at a CTA stop at Roosevelt Road and disappeared about the same time as did Brookson, police said.

As of Friday morning, a GoFundMe effort to help cover the cost of Brookson’s funeral and other financial needs had raised more than $17,000.

Brookson, who was working as a dietary aide at the Friedman Place senior living facility on Chicago’s Northwest Side, is being remembered as a trusted friend who was always a phone call away for those who needed anything.

“If you’re in need of a place to stay, one text and she will welcome you in her place,” one friend wrote on the GoFundMe page. “She will also cook and prepare food for you. She’s the kind of person, if she has enough money, she will buy food for a homeless person. Whenever we would wait for the train/bus and it’s getting cold, she would gladly offer one of the sweaters she’s wearing.”

Another friend wrote that Brookson’s friendship couldn’t easily be measured.

“She was loved by everyone and always radiated positivity,” the person wrote. “Natally was the best friend anyone could ask for. She always was encouraging and wanted what was best for you. She has always been there even when life got busy. I am so grateful to say that she has been part of my life for such a long time and has impacted me in such a positive way.”

Anyone with information on Sotelo's whereabouts is asked to contact Chicago Police Department detectives at 312-746-8255 or at 312-744-8266.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner