Missing man found alive at Rock Run Rookery Preserve

A 31-year-old Joliet man who went missing at the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Rock Run Rookery Preserve was found alive at around 7 p.m. Friday.

Leo Hara appeared uninjured when he was found in heavy brush at the Joliet preserve, said Forest Preserve Deputy Chief David Barrios Jr. An ambulance was called to take him to a local hospital for evaluation.

“We are relieved and overjoyed that this search has concluded in a positive way,” Barrios said. “And we want to thank all the agencies that came out to help search and members of the public who called in tips. The community came together to assist and we appreciate everyone’s efforts.” 

Hara went missing at 12:10 p.m. Friday during a Cornerstone Services group outing at the preserve. 

Forest Preserve police immediately launched a search and rescue effort and asked for the public’s help in finding Hara. 

Multiple law enforcement, fire and emergency agencies responded with K-9 units, divers, helicopters, boats and drones.

“In the end, it was boots on the ground that found Mr. Hara,” Barrios said. “The Illinois Search and Rescue Council brought 27 members to search, and they are the group that located him in the preserve.” 

Assisting agencies included Channahon Police, Joliet Fire, Will County Sheriff’s Police, Cook County Sheriff’s Police and Wisconsin search and rescue and area K-9 units. The Salvation Army also assisted with a hydration/food van. 

Rock Run Rookery is a 224-acre preserve located on Youngs Road, south of Route 6/Eames Street.