Oregon — The investigation into the death of an Oregon lady, discovered Friday at her home, is ongoing, but there is no danger to the public, Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said Monday afternoon.
“While the investigation remains ongoing, search warrants, interviews, and an autopsy have taken place since the initial call, which lead us to believe no danger to the public exists,” VanVickle told reporters in a release. “Pending toxicology and continued examination of the evidence, no further information will be released at this time.”
Several law enforcement vehicles, the sheriff’s office’s mobile command center, and a vehicle from the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal were among those seen Friday afternoon along the driveway of the home at 4165 E. Route 64, where Jill Bier, 67, an aide for the Oregon Elementary School, lived.
Later on Monday, Oregon Schools Superintendent P.J. Caposey stated that the school district has been cooperating with the sheriff’s department while the investigation proceeds.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you that Jill Bier, a staff member at Oregon Elementary School, has died. We’ve been working closely with the Ogle County Sheriff’s Department since Friday, and we got confirmation earlier today that we could share this information with our employees and family,” Caposey added.
VanVickle identified Bier as the woman discovered.
Caposey stated that counselors for kids and staff will be accessible at the school on Tuesday.
“We understand that this loss will affect many of our students, and we are committed to providing support for them at school tomorrow. Counselors and staff will be ready to assist children with their emotions, whether they require a quiet room, someone to talk to, or simply extra comfort throughout the day,” he stated.
At 9:59 a.m. on Friday, the sheriff’s office received a call concerning a deceased person at a small rural property located approximately 3½ miles east of Oregon. Officials spent much of the day at home. An autopsy on Bier’s remains was performed on Monday.
The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is being aided by Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigators, the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Ogle County Coroner’s Office, and the Peoria County Medical Examiner, according to VanVickle.
The reason of death has yet to be revealed.
Here is a social media post from Caposey.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you that Jill Bier, a staff member at Oregon Elementary School, has died. We have been working closely with the Ogle County Sheriff’s Department since Friday, and we obtained confirmation earlier today that we may share this information with our employees and family.
“We understand that this loss will affect many of our students, and we are committed to providing support for them at school tomorrow. Counselors and staff will be ready to assist children with their emotions, whether they require a quiet area, someone to talk to, or extra comfort throughout the day.
“Each child will react differently, and we invite you to communicate with your child tonight about their emotions. If you believe they require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us (Principals and Home Room Teachers) so we can ensure they receive it.
“This is a painful period for our school community, and our first focus is guiding our pupils through it with care and support. Please know that we are here for them and for you.
