Mayor: Des Plaines won't rest until teen's death solved

November 19, 2010 marks two weeks since the tragic hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of Choice Taylor, 17, a Maine West High School student and Des Plaines resident.

Our police department has worked diligently on the case which occurred between 6- 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, 2010, and involved a semi-tractor vehicle on Algonquin Road, near Third Avenue.

Choice Taylor's death impacted Des Plaines beyond measure, signifying just how closely knit our community truly is. While Des Plaines may be one of the largest Northwest suburbs, it has retained its “small town” qualities where people are truly sensitive to each other and care about each other's welfare.

I extend my thanks to all those who have helped during these difficult times, from the media who helped disseminate the composite picture of the driver, still being sought, to the many volunteers who have offered support services, to the residents who have come to the assistance of Choice Taylor's family and loved ones as they try to pick up their lives.

I want the community and the media to know that the City of Des Plaines will continue to strive to bring closure to this incident. Our police department will continue to pursue every lead and avenue in pursuit of a resolution.

Time sometimes creates complacency, but that will not be the case in Des Plaines.

If anyone has information please contact the Des Plaines Police Department at (847) 391-5400 or Crime Stoppers at (847) 699-STOP. For Text a Tip, text C-R-I-M-E-S (274637) Keyword: ICARE.

The quote, “It is in the darkest of night, that the brightest stars shine,” exemplifies our City of Des Plaines. We will never forget.

Mayor Martin J. Moylan

Des Plaines