Coroner Clarifies Rumors Regarding Local Middle School Teacher's Death

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — The McHenry County Coroner's Office says a rumor that's been circulating surrounding the cause of death for a local middle school teacher is false.

Heather Frederick, a middle school teacher at Heineman Middle School, did not die in a car crash, McHenry County Coroner Michael Rein said.

"I want to clarify that this is false story that has been circulated on the internet and possible news organizations," he said. The 48-year-old woman died in her home on Jan. 8, he said.

The coroner's office completed an autopsy on Frederick on Jan. 10 and is currently waiting for toxicology results to determine a final cause of death. Rein said it does not appear that any type of foul play was involved in her death.

Meanwhile, a visitation for Frederick has been set for 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Harvest Bible Chapel, and an intimate memorial service will follow, which will start at 6:30 p.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. at the chapel. A celebration of life will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Heineman Middle School, 725 Academic Drive in Algonquin.

Frederick is survived by her husband and six children, according to her obituary.

The longtime District 158 teacher started a non-profit organization in 2014, Give Love for Life, which helped to provide assistance to families in need after an unexpected event, illness, accident or other circumstance.

Frederick's family is asking donations be made to Give Love For Life in lieu of flowers. Donations will be used to fund a scholarship for a District 158 student in her name, according to her obituary.