CRESTWOOD, IL – A truck driver has been charged with murder following a tragic incident at a trucking company in Crestwood, Illinois, where authorities say he killed his employer and then attempted to destroy evidence by setting the building ablaze.
Josif Suclea, 52, faces a first-degree murder charge in the death of Dane Koletski, 46, the president and CEO of ATG Truckload. According to Crestwood police, the case unfolded when emergency responders arrived at the scene of a fire at 13835 S. Kostner Avenue on the afternoon of March 5.
Firefighters managed to put out the fire quickly but discovered Koletski’s body amid dense smoke on the second floor of the building. An examination by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office revealed that Koletski had died from neck injuries inflicted by a sharp object, confirming the death as a homicide.
Detectives determined that the fire was deliberately set to cover up the crime. Investigations led them to suspect Suclea, who was located hours later at a truck stop in Holland, Michigan, and taken into custody without incident.
Authorities extradited Suclea back to Illinois, where he appeared before a judge for a bond hearing. He is being held at Cook County Jail pending trial.
While police have not disclosed a motive, the circumstances have left the community in shock. Friends and family continue to mourn Koletski, a native of Macedonia who leaves behind a young son. A GoFundMe campaign has been established, highlighting his dedication as a father and valued member of the community. It remembers him as someone who was deeply cherished.
Koletski founded ATG Truckload in 2010 with his family, a company that specialized in the transportation of refrigerated goods. Known for his leadership, Koletski’s contributions to the industry and his close-knit family will be remembered during this difficult time.
As the case progresses, authorities remain tight-lipped about further details, focusing on ensuring justice for the heart-wrenching loss felt by so many.