A tragic hit-and-run incident early Saturday morning has claimed the life of Brendan Siddall, a dedicated social service worker, musician, and actor, on North DuSable Lake Shore Drive in Lakeview.
Brendan Siddall, who was also a member of the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, was just 26 years old at the time of the accident.
According to a bulletin issued by the Chicago Police Department, the incident occurred around 3:34 a.m. on June 21.
Siddall was on foot in the 3600 block of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive when he was struck by a northbound driver of a white 2019 four-door Honda Accord sedan.
The vehicle, identified by its license number FH49505, fled the scene immediately after the collision.
In an effort to gather information about the case, the police department is asking anyone who may have information to contact Major Accidents at 312-745-4521 or to submit an anonymous tip online at CPDTIP.com using reference number RD# JJ302688.
Footage from a nearby security camera shows the vehicle coming from an offramp of the drive at Irving Park Road, suggesting that the driver left the highway shortly after the incident and fled west on Irving Park.
As of the afternoon following the crash, Chicago Police stated that no one has been taken into custody.
The Illinois Traffic Crash Report, filled out by responding officials, gives additional context about this unfortunate accident.
The report indicates that the crash occurred at 3655 North DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
This location is known to have multiple travel lanes for motorists and includes a pedestrian underpass connecting the Lakefront Trail to the Inner Drive north of Addison.
It is noted in the crash report that Siddall was struck in the middle of the roadway, amidst eight lanes designated for vehicle traffic.
However, details regarding the events leading up to the crash remain unclear, leaving questions about why Siddall was on foot in the middle of such a busy highway.
A witness in the area described hearing a loud noise which they initially interpreted as a car hitting a wall, noting that they did not realize a pedestrian had been struck until about 10 to 15 minutes after the incident when law enforcement began swarming the area.
Siddall was transported to Illinois Masonic Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
His employer, Misericordia Heart of Mercy, released a statement highlighting his commitment and enthusiasm in working as a direct service professional for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Coworker TyChina Moore remembered him fondly, stating, “Brendan came in with a lot of enthusiasm, was really fun, worked well with the residents, always had very high energy. Really great guy.”
Reports indicate that Siddall used both ‘he/him’ and ‘they/them’ pronouns.
The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus also shared its sorrow in a statement, expressing their deep loss.
The statement read, “We mourn the loss of a beautiful soul whose presence made CGMC a more loving and inclusive place. Brendan will be deeply missed, but their spirit will continue to resonate in the music we make and the community we cherish.”
Brendan Siddall’s friends, family, and colleagues have taken to social media to express their grief and share memories.
One loved one, Karen Siddall, wrote, “Can we all just stop for a minute and remember the kind, talented, and beautiful soul that is Brendan Siddall? Brendan, you are deeply loved—and you always will be.”
As the investigation continues and authorities urge anyone with information to step forward, the tragic loss of Brendan Siddall serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by pedestrians in urban environments.
According to Streetsblog Chicago, pedestrian safety issues have been a consistent concern in the city.
In 2025 alone, Chicago has recorded numerous pedestrian fatalities, with Siddall’s incident being one of the most recent.
The city’s records indicate that by June 21, 2025, twelve pedestrians had already lost their lives in traffic incidents, a trend that underscores ongoing safety challenges on city streets.
Siddall’s untimely death has ignited conversations surrounding pedestrian safety protocols and the responsibility of drivers, particularly in areas where pedestrians and cyclists may be at risk.
As the Chicago community mourns this heartbreaking loss, it turns attention to a collective effort towards improving safety for all road users.
Authorities encourage vigilance on the roads and are committed to ensuring justice for Brendan and other victims of hit-and-run incidents throughout the city.
The investigation remains open, and as more details emerge, the hope is that Siddall’s memory will lead to heightened vigilance in preventing further tragedies.
image source from：chi
