Warren, IL – August 29, 2025 – The Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating a tragic incident that occurred on Illinois Route 78 North, just west of Vagel Court and east of North Slaughterhouse Road, near the Warren city limits. The incident, believed to be a hit-and-run, resulted in the death of 37-year-old Nicole Burke from South Wayne, Wisconsin.

At approximately 11:05 A.M. on August 29, 2025, Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of an unresponsive person lying in a ditch along IL Route 78 North. Upon arrival, first responders confirmed that the individual, later identified as Nicole Burke, was deceased. Preliminary investigations suggest that Burke was struck by an unknown vehicle while walking northwest along the highway. The vehicle involved fled the scene without reporting the incident.

The Sheriff’s Office believes the incident occurred sometime after 9:00 P.M. on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Investigators have been unable to identify or locate the suspect vehicle, which is believed to have sustained front-end or passenger-side damage, potentially including damage to the passenger-side headlight or mirror.

Sheriff Craig A. Ketelsen and his team are urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation. “We are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information about a vehicle matching this description to contact us immediately,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. Tips can be provided by calling (815) 777-2141 or through the Submit-A-Tip feature on the Jo Daviess County website, where individuals may remain anonymous.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, with the Sheriff’s Office noting that details may evolve as new information becomes available. Updates will be shared with the public as the case progresses.

The Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Nicole Burke during this difficult time. The community is encouraged to assist law enforcement in bringing closure to this tragic event.

For further inquiries, contact the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office at (815) 777-2141.

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