by Momence, Illinois — A rural Illinois bar owner and mother was shot and killed Monday morning while preparing to open her business, in a case authorities described as a targeted robbery that ended in a fatal shooting despite the victim’s cooperation.
The incident occurred shortly after 11 a.m. at The Line, a bar located along Route 114 near the Indiana border, according to the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office.
Victim Found Inside Bar, Pronounced Dead at Scene
Deputies responded to the scene after receiving reports of a shooting and found Courtney Drysdale, 30, inside the establishment. She was pronounced dead at the location.
Investigators said Drysdale was alone inside the bar at the time and was performing routine opening duties when the suspect entered.
Authorities Say Suspect Demanded Cash
According to Sheriff Mike Downey, the suspect entered the bar armed with a firearm and demanded money from the cash register.
“Ms. Drysdale complied with the suspect’s demands,” — Sheriff Mike Downey
Despite her compliance, authorities say the suspect fired multiple shots before fleeing the scene.
“Despite her cooperation, the suspect shot her before leaving the business,” Downey said during a press briefing.
Community Left Reeling After Fatal Shooting
Sheriff Downey said the killing has deeply affected the local community, particularly given Drysdale’s role as a business owner and mother.
“Courtney was deeply loved by her family, her daughter, and by many in the community,”
Downey said. “This violent act has had a profound impact, and we are committed to ensuring accountability.”
Drysdale took over ownership of the bar in 2022, reopening it under the name The Line. The business announced it would remain closed indefinitely following her death.
She is survived by her teenage daughter and her fiancé.
Surveillance Footage Helps Identify Suspect
Investigators said the suspect attempted to remove a digital recording device from the bar, but additional surveillance footage was recovered.
Authorities released images showing a man wearing a high-visibility jacket and holding a clipboard, as well as footage of a white BMW sedan believed to be connected to the suspect.
A $5,000 reward was offered for information leading to an arrest.
Arrest Made Hours Later in Indiana
Within hours of releasing the images, law enforcement located and arrested Julius E. Burkes Jr., 47, outside his residence in Hammond, Indiana, approximately 52 miles north of Momence.
Sheriff Downey credited a coordinated effort between multiple agencies and the public for the swift arrest.
“The community provided crucial tips that led to a peaceful apprehension,” Downey said. “This level of cooperation made a real difference.”
Extradition Delayed by Separate Case
Burkes is currently being held in Indiana. While he has waived extradition to Illinois, officials said a pending felony case in Lake County, Indiana, must be resolved before he can be transferred to face charges related to Drysdale’s death.
Authorities said the pending matter involves an alleged residential entry incident in December.
Prior Criminal History Confirmed
Court records show Burkes has a lengthy criminal history, including prior arrests for battery and stalking-related offenses.
As a juvenile in 1994, Burkes pleaded guilty to two counts of murder in an unrelated case near Chicago. He was sentenced to 37 years in prison but served significantly less time before being released.
Investigation Continues
The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare formal charges. Officials emphasized that additional details will be released through the court process.
Law enforcement urged anyone with additional information to contact investigators directly.
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