The search for a missing 60-year-old duck hunter concluded grimly on November 4, 2023, when his body was found in Fourth Lake in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, near Lake Villa, Illinois. Patrick Serzynski had been missing since October 30, 2023, after failing to return from a duck hunting trip.

The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified the body as Serzynski’s and stated that the preliminary autopsy suggested drowning. Serzynski was last observed preparing for hunting at his duck blind. After his failure to return, a subsequent search located his boat and personal items at the blind, but Serzynski was absent.

Multiple fire department dive teams and rescue boats undertook a thorough search of the lake. Despite their comprehensive efforts, Serzynski was not found for five days.

Serzynski, a retired electrician of 38 years and an enthusiast of outdoor activities, had celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary with his wife, Kimberley, in September.

Officials have yet to provide detailed information regarding the events leading to Serzynski’s death but have stated that foul play is not suspected. The investigation into the drowning’s cause by the Lake County Coroner’s Office is ongoing.

The Lake Villa community, along with the wider hunting community, has extended its sympathies to the Serzynski family during this challenging period.