Police piecing together details

ROCK FALLS – Police on Friday still were trying to determine what happened to a 34-year-old Rock Falls man who was found dead Thursday behind his apartment building.

Chief Mike Kuelper said detectives were canvassing the area around the Hampton Apartments, 1203 Dixon Ave., and talking to family and witnesses who may have been in contact with George E. Chavarria over the last week.

Police have called Chavarria’s death “suspicious” until they can determine a cause of death. They have not commented on the extent of Chavarria’s injuries, when he may have died, or whether they suspect foul play.

Kuelper said that police can’t “rule out anything” until officers receive more information and the investigation is complete.

An autopsy was conducted Friday morning; however, Kuelper said he had not yet received the results.

Whiteside County Coroner Joe McDonald could not be reached for comment Friday.

Police were called about 2:22 p.m. Thursday to the apartment complex on a report of a possible assault.

His boss came looking for him when he didn’t show up for work, and discovered Chavarria’s body on a small rectangular patio, accessible by three steps, that is behind the apartment building, according to police.

Chavarria was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police and Illinois State Police Crime Investigators searched Chavarria’s apartment Thursday night and towed his blue Buick Century.

Police are asking anyone who may have had contact with Chavarria since Monday to email the department at tips@rockfalls61071.com or call the department at 815-622-1142 and 815-625-2153.