A tragic incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, December 6, when Shelby County Coroner Brad Phegley, 67, was found deceased in Lake Mattoon following what authorities describe as an apparent hunting accident.
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office responded to a 911 call at 2:49 p.m. from a waterfowl hunting partner of the victim. The caller reported discovering Phegley’s body floating near their hunting decoys in front of a shoreline waterfowl blind located near 3526E and 850 North Road in Shelby County.
Emergency responders, including Shelby County Deputies and Neoga Ambulance personnel, pronounced Phegley deceased at the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest accidental circumstances, though the exact cause of death is under further review.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Conservation Police and Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigations were called to assist with the investigation. An autopsy is being conducted today (Saturday) in Bloomington, IL, to determine additional details surrounding the incident.
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office, IDNR Conservation Police, and Illinois State Police continue to investigate the event. Shelby County Deputy Coroners were supported at the scene by Moultrie County Coroner Lynn Reed.
Sheriff Brian McReynolds extended his office's prayers and condolences to Phegley’s family and the community, where the late coroner was a respected figure and had just won reelection.
