Body of missing 24-year-old Jovon Nelson Found in Calumet River

Authorities have officially identified the individual recovered from the Calumet River on Wednesday morning.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office announced on Thursday that the deceased is 24-year-old Jovon Nelson, who was reported missing three weeks ago.

According to Chicago police, Nelson was last seen on April 9 in the vicinity of 3200 East 92nd Street.

Last month, Nelson’s mother, Tangela Nelson, held a press conference where she revealed organizing numerous search efforts, utilizing drones and K9 units to scour through abandoned structures in an attempt to locate him.

She mentioned that during his last sighting, he appeared distressed as he left his apartment.

The medical examiner’s office has not released any further details at this time.

Tangela Nelson, Jovon’s mother, has initiated a GoFundMe page. It states: “On May 1st, 2024, my dear son, Jovon Nelson, was discovered in the Calumet River. For over 23 days, I have tirelessly searched for him every day. Coming to terms with this new reality is overwhelming. My son was just 24 years old! I am determined to uncover the truth about what happened to my child! I AM DESPERATE TO IDENTIFY WHO IS ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS!!!”

Reports indicate that Nelson vanished after contacting the police for assistance from the East Side neighborhood. He also reached out to his mother, who mentioned that he had disappeared by the time she arrived at the location.

“The last phone call, he said, ‘Ma I need help. Ma could you help me?’. “He sounded really frightened.”

Tangea Nelson, his mother, stated that she is unsure why her son sought help.

Nelson is described as a Black man, 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing 140 lbs., with dreadlocks and a neck tattoo.

Police noted that he was last seen wearing a gray jogging suit.