August 14, 2023: The City is very saddened to share the following information from the Lake County Coroner’s Office. The City extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Omar Diaz, who was tragically killed on Sunday, August 13. No family should experience the heartbreak of the loss of a child in such a senseless manner. The City also stands in solidarity with the students and staff of Highland Park High School and North Shore School District 112 in supporting each other as caring and resilient school communities.
Incidents such as these can be re-traumatizing. If you need immediate assistance or have an emergency please dial 911. Free and confidential assistance in accessing counseling and other support services is available 24/7 from 211 Lake County. Visit 211LakeCounty.org, call 211, or text your zip code to 898211.
On Sunday, August 13, 2023, at approximately 11:30 a.m., Highland Park Police Officers responded to the 2300 block of Green Bay Road for a report of a person shot. Highland Park Police and Fire arrived and located the victim, a 16-year-old male of Highwood. The victim was transported to Highland Park hospital and pronounced deceased at the hospital.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office was notified and responded to the hospital.
The deceased has been identified as 16-year-old Omar Diaz, of Highwood. On Monday, August 14, 2023, an autopsy was conducted at the Lake County Coroner’s Office. Preliminary results of the autopsy indicate that the young man died from a gunshot wound.
Highland Park Police requested the assistance of the Lake County Major Crime Task Force to assist with the investigation. Preliminary details indicate the shooting was targeted and not random. The investigation remains ongoing by Task Force Investigators and Highland Park Detectives.