Antioch man still missing weeks after car crash; family offers $10K reward
Thomas 'Tommy' Howe last seen walking into Libertyville forest preserve, witnesses say
ANTIOCH, Ill. (WLS) -- The family of an Antioch man who went missing three weeks ago after an accident on Interstate 94 is pleading for his safe return.
Police said Thomas "Tommy" Howe was in a crash on I-94 near Route 176 just before 11 a.m. on Jan. 22.
Howe's family said he was on his way home to Antioch from Chicago at the time of the crash to visit family, but he never arrived.
Witnesses told police they saw Howe leave the scene of the crash and enter Old School Forest Preserve in Libertyville.
"In his 24 years, he's accomplished more than we could have ever imagined, all while being one of the most humble people we know," said his father, Tom Howe. "He's the first person to drop everything's he's doing to help someone else out."
"He's the type of person that we all strive to be," said Howe's mother MaryMargaret.
Howe's parents have been asking for the public's help and are now offering a $10,000 reward for information.
His parents said they have no idea why Howe walked away from the crash or where he might have been going. They believe their son may have had a head injury. Police said his car was found after the crash with airbags deployed.
"Tommy, if you see this, and if you are confused, please know and remember how deep our love and care is for you and the strong bond that our family has," his mother pleaded. "Please call us if you can."
Two days after the crash, Howe's work cellphone was found in the Old School Forest Preserve, but nothing else was found.
Since Howe vanished, police and volunteers have scoured the Forest preserve with search parties, trained K-9 units, private aircraft and even drones, all with no luck.
His family was emotional Friday and said this is very out of character for Howe. They hope someone knows something that could lead them to their son.
"Please, please, we ask for your help and guidance to bring him home," Howe's mom said.
Police said the investigation remains active and they have been following up on every possible lead they have, with over 200 leads so far.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Antioch Police Department.
