Momence, Illinois — A suspect has been apprehended following the fatal shooting of a local bar owner, intensifying the shock felt by the community. The arrest of Julis E. Burkes Jr., 47, occurred less than two days after 30-year-old Courtney Drysdale was found dead inside her bar, The Line, just outside of Momence.
Drysdale was shot while preparing to open her establishment located on Illinois 114, near the Illinois-Indiana border. On Monday morning, she was reportedly going about her usual routine when Burkes entered, brandished a firearm, and demanded cash from the register. Despite her cooperation, she was shot twice, execution-style, according to Kankakee County Sheriff Mike Downey.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, investigators released images of Burkes and a vehicle associated with him — a white four-door BMW sedan with distinctive features. The sheriff’s office credited surveillance video, which captured Burkes in a high-visibility safety jacket and carrying a clipboard, for aiding in the swift identification and capture. Witnesses reported that he was seen fleeing the scene with a gun, raising concerns among local residents.
Drysdale’s best friend, Hailey Gershon, expressed devastating grief over the loss, highlighting the compassion and generosity that characterized Drysdale’s life. “Courtney was a really compassionate person,” Gershon said. “She cared so deeply about everyone around her.” Drysdale had established strong ties with both patrons and fellow bar staff, creating a communal atmosphere at The Line.
As community members processed the news, many reflected on the impact of Drysdale’s untimely death. She had taken over the bar four years ago, becoming a beloved figure in the area. Those who frequented The Line have described it as a family-like gathering place and noted the profound void that Drysdale’s absence has created.
The sheriff’s office confirmed that no one else was present during the shooting, and it is believed Burkes attempted to erase traces of his actions by stealing a digital recording device from the bar. However, the evidence secured from the surveillance footage played a crucial role in leading to his rapid capture.
Burkes was apprehended in Hammond, Indiana, approximately 26 hours after the incident. He is currently being held in Indiana as he awaits extradition to face charges in Illinois. The news of his arrest brought a sense of relief to Drysdale’s family and friends, who expressed a desire for justice following such a senseless act of violence.
Sheriff Downey emphasized the collective sorrow felt by the community, stating that Drysdale was loved by many, including her young daughter and close friends. As the investigation continues, local residents are left grappling with the tragedy, seeking answers while mourning a life that brought joy to so many.