Investigation continues into death of teen found near Heyworth
BLOOMINGTON ? Authorities are continuing their investigation into the death of a 14-year-old girl, whose body was found earlier this week at a farm near Heyworth.
Kalie Easton lived in rural Bloomington, according to a statement issued Thursday by McLean County Sheriff Jon Sandage. He said authorities consider her death "suspicious in nature."
She was last seen at 6 a.m. Tuesday at her home; she was missing when her parents returned home at 5:40 p.m. and they reported her missing two hours later, police said. Her body was found about 10:45 a.m. Wednesday.
St. John's Lutheran Church, Bloomington, opened its sanctuary from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday to allow people to show support for her family. The girl's father, Shaun Easton, is a worship leader at the church.
"It is with deep sadness that we share with you the unexpected death of Kalie Easton, daughter of Shaun and Camie," said the Rev. Christine McNeal, associate pastor for member care and connections at the church, in an email to the congregation.
"Today the Easton family needs us to surround them with the love of God through our prayers," she said.
Speaking before the gathering at the church, McNeal declined to comment further, noting Kalie's death was a personal loss for the church's staff and congregation.
Although the temperature dropped from the low teens to 5 degrees overnight Tuesday, Sandage said the weather does not appear to be a factor in her death.
Sandage declined to comment on the possible cause of death. McLean County Coroner Kathy Davis' office issued no comment on the case.
Sandage said authorities think Kalie, who was home-schooled, walked away from her home. They want to hear from anyone who saw a female walking Tuesday near U.S. 51 or South Morris Avenue.
Anyone with information should call detective Cory Beverlin at 309-275-8389.