The peaceful village of Momence, Illinois, is reeling after the tragic and senseless death of Courtney Drysdale, a 30-year-old entrepreneur whose life was taken in a violent act described by authorities as an “execution-style” shooting. Courtney’s sudden passing has left family, friends, and the local community grappling with grief, disbelief, and the devastating loss of a familiar and beloved member of their tight-knit town.
Courtney was found just before noon on Monday morning at her bar, The Line, on Route 114, where she had been preparing to open for the day. Officers from the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a shooting and discovered Courtney with fatal gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. According to police, convicted killer Julius E. Burkes Jr., 47, entered the bar armed, allegedly demanding money from the cashier. In a horrifying turn, Courtney, despite her compliance, was shot twice and left to die. Sheriff Mike Downey called the act “cold and calculated,” underscoring the brutality of the crime and the profound shock it has sent through the community.
Courtney was widely known in Momence not only as a dedicated business owner but also as a kind and vibrant individual who touched the lives of everyone she met. Friends, customers, and fellow entrepreneurs described her as driven, personable, and deeply proud of the business she built and nurtured. Her warmth, professionalism, and generosity made her a central figure in the village, and her loss has left a palpable emptiness in the daily rhythms of the community.
As news of the tragedy spread, local residents began leaving memorials and tributes near The Line, honoring Courtney’s memory and expressing solidarity with her family. The incident has sparked conversations about safety, justice, and the fragility of life, with the community coming together to mourn collectively while seeking answers.
While the investigation continues, authorities are pursuing leads and working to ensure that justice is served. Meanwhile, Courtney’s family and the people of Momence are left to grapple with the reality of a life ended far too soon, holding onto the memories of her kindness, determination, and the light she brought to all who knew her.
Rest in peace, Courtney Drysdale. Your legacy of ambition, compassion, and community spirit will live on in the hearts of those whose lives you touched, and you will never be forgotten.