A chilling hunt ended with an arrest, but the shadow of a brutal act hangs over a small Illinois community. Courtney M. Drysdale, a 30-year-old bar owner and mother, was tragically murdered in what authorities described as a cold, calculated execution.
The Line, Drysdale’s bar in rural Momence, became the scene of unimaginable violence just before noon on Monday. She was preparing to open for the day when a man entered, a gun immediately visible, and demanded money. Drysdale, complying with the terrifying request, handed over her earnings.
Despite her cooperation, the suspect callously shot her twice. Investigators characterized the act as “execution-style,” a phrase that underscores the senselessness and cruelty of the crime. The bar’s surveillance system captured crucial images of the perpetrator.
The suspect, attempting to erase evidence of his crime, tried to remove the bar’s video recording device before fleeing. He was seen leaving in a white BMW, wearing a distinctive bright yellow jacket, a hat, and glasses – details that would prove vital in the ensuing manhunt.
Within 26 hours, Julius E. Burkes Jr., 47, was taken into custody as he left his residence in Hammond, Indiana. The swift apprehension was a testament to the relentless efforts of law enforcement and the outpouring of tips from the public.
Sheriff Mike Downey expressed hope that Burkes’ capture would offer a measure of solace to Drysdale’s grieving family, friends, and the community shattered by her loss. He referred to the suspect as a “monster,” a stark reflection of the horror inflicted upon Drysdale.
Court records reveal a disturbing pattern of criminal behavior stretching back decades. Burkes was recently released on bond after being accused of breaking into an ex-girlfriend’s home just last December, adding another layer of complexity to the tragedy.
His past includes a 2014 battery conviction, resulting in a year of supervised release, and a far more serious offense from 1995. At just 15 years old, he pleaded guilty to two counts of felony murder, receiving a 37-year sentence – the specifics of that case remain obscured by limited records.
Burkes is currently held in Indiana, awaiting extradition back to Illinois to face charges in Drysdale’s murder. The community now begins the long, difficult process of healing, grappling with the loss of a vibrant life stolen too soon.
