Courtney M. Drysdale, 30, a beloved mother and local business owner from Momence, Illinois, was fatally shot in a brutal robbery at her own bar, “The Line,” on February 2, 2026. The tragic incident occurred around 11 a.m. near the rural Illinois‑Indiana state line as Drysdale was preparing to open for the day, according to authorities.

Sheriff’s deputies say a 47‑year‑old suspect, Julius E. Burkes Jr., entered the establishment and demanded money from the cash register. Despite Drysdale’s cooperation, investigators reported that the suspect shot her twice in what was described as an “execution‑style” killing before fleeing the scene.

The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office quickly launched a homicide investigation. Surveillance footage, recovered from inside the bar, showed the suspect attempting to remove recording equipment before leaving. A vehicle believed to be linked to the crime — a white BMW sedan — was seen driving toward Indiana shortly after the shooting.

Within roughly 26 hours of the shooting, law enforcement tracked and arrested Burkes Jr. at his Hammond, Indiana home. He is currently in custody in Indiana awaiting extradition to Illinois to face murder charges.

Courtney Drysdale’s death has sent shockwaves through the close‑knit Momence community. Friends and family described her as a compassionate and dedicated person whose life revolved around her young daughter and the patrons she welcomed at The Line. “She would literally give up the whole world for somebody,” a close friend said, reflecting the deep grief felt by those who knew her.