Lake Ellyn Park in Glen Ellyn was shut down early Saturday and the Glen Ellyn Park District's annual Freedom Four 4‑mile run was canceled as police launched an active investigation in the area. Officers asked residents to steer clear of the park and said they would keep an increased presence in place while detectives worked, adding there was no active safety threat to the public.
According to ABC7 Chicago, Glen Ellyn police confirmed both the park closure and the race cancellation early Saturday, but did not immediately release any further details about what prompted the investigation.
Park District posts safety notice
Glen Ellyn Park District officials separately posted an "Important Safety Notice" explaining that the Lake Ellyn playground was closed after a tree was struck by lightning during recent storms. Crews are expected to address the damage on Monday.
The district also said staff were keeping an eye on flooding around the lake and urged residents to follow posted closure signs and check the Park District hotline for the latest updates.
Freedom Four canceled; race had been scheduled at 7:30 a.m.
ABC7 Chicago reported that the Glen Ellyn Park District's Freedom Four 4‑mile run was called off Saturday as officers responded to the park.
The Daily Herald had listed the race as beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Lake Ellyn Park, 645 Lenox Road.
Officials from the village and the Park District asked anyone with information to contact police, to stay away from the park while investigators are on site, and to check official channels for updates, especially for those planning to attend July 4 activities. The Park District says its event page and hotline will carry the most current notices and closures.
Police released no additional information Saturday as investigators remained at the scene, and officials said more details would be shared once they are available. This report will be updated when authorities or the Park District issue further notices.
