CHICAGO — Police said a 41-year-old with a developmental disability living on the 1400 block of West Berwyn Avenue was found in his apartment Tuesday afternoon alive and fully responsive.
Officers arrived at the scene at 2:15 p.m. following a call from the man’s neighbors, who were concerned about hearing nothing coming from his unit. The officers found a neat, orderly apartment. The man presented with good hygiene, appropriate attire and a positive affect. He cooperated fully with law enforcement. An EMT conducted a physical screening and determined he was in sound health.
Police interviewed the man’s 59-year-old caregiver and discovered the two have a functional, mutually supportive relationship dating back almost 20 years. The man’s family was contacted and was unsurprised by news of his condition. They’d seen him very recently and knew he was doing all right. They asked the officers to tell the man’s caregiver, who they absolutely adore, that they were bringing over a batch of his favorite homemade cinnamon rolls that evening.
Sgt. Daniel Vargas of the 20th District said this is the 17th such case they’ve seen this month. “This kind of thing happens all the time in independent living,” he told The Squeaky Wheel. “Someone lives by themself on a subsidy, insurance covers home aid, the care workers are good people, the family is nearby and involved.” Vargas sank his eyes and shook his head. “It’s damned commendable, the things you see on this job.”