A popular teacher from the northwest region of Indiana was discovered dead in a stairwell at the East Chicago Lighthouse Charter School, located in East Chicago, Indiana.
The deceased, Craig Jones, 47, of Gary, Indiana, was found in the early hours of Friday, February 23, 2024, as reported by the East Chicago Police Department.
Jones, a special education teacher and basketball coach, was known for his commitment to teaching and his students. He had reportedly worked into the late hours of Thursday, February 22. After informing his family of his plan to work late, he arranged a ride home at approximately 10:30 p.m. However, he did not appear at the designated pick-up point at the given time. The family member waited for some time and ultimately left the school without Jones.
The school’s maintenance staff found Jones on the landing of a second-floor stairwell the next morning, around 6:40 a.m., and immediately informed the authorities. The East Chicago Police Department, working jointly with the Lake County Coroner’s Office, promptly started an inquiry into the circumstances of Jones’ death.
Deputy Coroner Eric Graf stated that the cause of death is currently under evaluation, with more information expected following a thorough examination. Meanwhile, the involvement of the Lake County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force, even though initial reports indicate no signs of foul play, aims to fully comprehend the events leading to Jones’ premature death.
The East Chicago Lighthouse Charter School issued a statement, expressing, “Our deepest condolences are with the family, friends, and students of Mr. Jones, a passionate educator who committed his life to the growth and development of our students. We are profoundly saddened by his loss.”
The local law enforcement agencies are appealing to the public for any information about Jones’ last known activities or any unusual incidents on the school grounds on Thursday night. The overall goal is to reconstruct the events leading to this tragic incident and bring closure to those affected.
