Officials Mum On Autopsy Details For Dad Killed In Dragging Death

GURNEE, IL — An investigation continues into the death of a Gurnee father of three, who is being remembered by his family as a "beacon of love."

Luis Guzman, 31, was found unresponsive at the intersection of Dorchester Avenue and Estes Street in Gurnee at about 3:40 a.m. on April 29 after telling his wife he was going to go outside to smoke, authorities said. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

As of Wednesday, little information is known regarding the circumstances that lead to his death. Steve Newton, chief deputy for the Lake County Coroner's Office, told Patch further details surrounding the cause of Guzman's death are not being released as the case continues to be investigated.

Meanwhile, funds are being raised for the three children Guzman left behind. The funds will also help cover the cost of a funeral.

Rodriguez's sister, Nashaly Ramirez, has set up a GoFundMe that has brought in $285. She refers to her "beloved brother" as a "pillar of strength, a beacon of love, and a devout believer in our Lord Jesus Christ."

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"On April 29th, our hearts shattered as we bid farewell to our beloved Luis Manuel. He was more than a father of three, more than a brother—he was a guiding light to all who knew him. His gentle strength, his unwavering love, will forever be etched in our hearts," Ramirez wrote in the GoFundMe.

Ramirez shared more fond memories of her brother:

From my earliest memories, Luis's presence filled our lives with joy and warmth. He moved with us to Chicago after a family tragedy, and despite the hardships, our bond remained unbreakable. Luis was our protector, our confidant, our rock. We shared laughter, jokes, and precious moments together, finding solace in our family's embrace.
His love for life was infectious. We'd joke around, dance to reggaeton, and watch our favorite TV shows together. But it was his passion for horses that truly illuminated his spirit. Luis dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, nurturing his love for animals with every visit to Puerto Rico, where he cared for them alongside his family and friends.

She noted that her brother "never lost his courage."

"Like a steadfast horse, he weathered every storm with grace and resilience. And just when things were looking up, he was taken from us in the blink of an eye," she wrote in the GoFundMe.

Those interested in donating to the GoFundMe can do so here.

Marisol Hernandez, the sister-in-law of Rodriguez, has also set up a GoFundMe, which has brought in $1,487 as of Wednesday morning.

Here is what she had to say about her brother-in-law:

With deep sadness, we inform you of the tragic passing of my brother-in-law. He leaves behind his beloved wife, my sister, and three beautiful children, who now face the immense challenge of arranging his funeral. As we come together to mourn his loss, I kindly ask for your support in covering the funeral costs during this difficult time. I am trying to raise money for my sister and her family. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help alleviate the financial burden on their family as they navigate this heartbreaking journey. Your generosity and kindness are greatly appreciated as we honor and remember Luis.

Donations to that fundraiser can be made here.

Authorities in Gurnee responded to the 3 a.m. call on April 29 in the 3800 block of Dorchester Avenue and found Rodriguez unresponsive in the street, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Prior to the incident, he'd told his wife he was going to go outside to smoke, according to authorities.

As of late last month, police worked to gather information and evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the Guzman's death, according to the news release. The Lake County Coroner's Office did not release preliminary results from Guzman's autopsy since his death is an "active investigation," officials said on April 30.

Anyone with information regarding the incident can contact the Gurnee Police Department. Anonymous tips can be left with Lake County Crime Stoppers by phone at 847-662-2222, online at www.lakecountycrimestoppers.com, or through