Missing Wisconsin father died in Chicago-area crash, Illinois State Police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A missing Wisconsin father died in a Chicago-area crash, Illinois State Police confirmed on Saturday.

ISP said 45-year-old Ben Oberto, who is from New Berlin, Wisconsin, was found dead inside his vehicle in Rosemont.

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Oberto was in Crystal Lake for a work appointment on Wednesday. He called his wife and told her he would be home in time to put their son to bed, but he never made it home.

Oberto's wife called police, who tracked his phone to Rosemont, but it had not been used since.

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Rosemont police on Friday found Oberto's Subaru Impreza partially submerged in a creek at the bottom of an embankment on the curve of the Interstate 90 eastbound ramp to Interstate 294 northbound, ISP said.

ISP said RPD divers found a body, later identified as Oberto, inside the vehicle.

His wife issued a statement on Facebook, saying, "The news I have to share is not what any of us want to hear. Early this morning, we received confirmation that Ben's car and body were found.

On Wednesday, November 13th, at approximately 9:47 pm, Ben's car left the freeway as he navigated a challenging turn towards home on a dark, rainy, and foggy night. He did not survive the accident.

I don't yet have the words to truly express the deep sorrow I'm experiencing, but you deserve to know the truth and not wait in agony anymore.

These past 60+ hours of searching, wondering, and fighting to find my husband has been excruciating, but the overwhelming love and support from our family, friends, and community has helped me through this. Together, we will get through this too.

Ben was not just my husband; he was a loving father, a cherished son, a caring brother, and a true friend to so many. His vibrant spirit, loving heart, and unmatched generosity left an indelible mark on every life he touched.

As we mourn this profound loss, let us also celebrate the love and joy he brought into our lives. I encourage everyone to share their favorite memories and stories of Ben, as they will help us all feel his presence in the days to come. I hope to honor his life and the legacy of love he leaves behind.

Thank you from the depths of my heart for your support and kindness during this unimaginably difficult time."

No further information was immediately available.

ISP is investigating.