Authorities are investigating the death of a 16-year-old juvenile following an overnight incident on Raleigh Chapel Road in Saline County. Eldorado Community Unit School District #4 confirmed Thursday that sophomore Nathaniel Potts passed away Wednesday night.
The district sent a letter to families Thursday morning, offering condolences to Potts’ family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all those affected by his death.
The incident occurred at a home just north of East Maple Street in Raleigh. Deputies from the Saline County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene after 9 p.m. Wednesday, and the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 8 was later called in to assist due to a potential internal conflict of interest. Saline County Sheriff Whipper Johnson noted the residence is owned by a family member of a county official who was not involved in the case.
Authorities reported that the individual was transported from the scene and later died from injuries sustained in the incident. As of Thursday afternoon, investigators have not classified the case as a homicide.
Eldorado Superintendent Cody Cusic assured families that counselors, social workers, and support staff will be available for students and staff in the coming days.
Illinois State Police say the investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.