Police: Charges could be upgraded after death of Des Plaines man
Des Plaines police said Friday they're awaiting autopsy results before deciding whether to upgrade charges against a Lake in the Hills man charged with the attempted murder of his former boss.
Robert F. Melko, 62, who owned and operated Bishop Plumbing in Des Plaines for 42 years, died Tuesday night at his Des Plaines home, authorities said. His death comes more than five months after police say he was attacked in his driveway by Paul Metz, 45, a former employee.
The Cook County medical examiner's office performed an autopsy on Melko this week, but a cause of death is pending toxicology reports, which could come weeks from now, according to Des Plaines police Cmdr. Christopher Mierzwa.
About 8:30 p.m. May 1, police say Metz went to Melko's home and struck his former boss with his vehicle. When officers arrived, Metz was trying to put Melko into the car after attempting to rob him, police said.
Metz fled in his vehicle, trying to strike several officers as he left, and led them on a high-speed chase until he lost control and crashed into a townhouse about a mile away, police said.
Melko's injuries from the crash were described by police at the time as severe but not life-threatening.
Mierzwa said Friday Metz left on good terms from his job 20 years ago, but he remained in touch with Melko.
In a posting on Bishop Plumbing's Facebook page, the company said Melko played an instrumental part in many young people getting their start in the plumbing industry.
"Bob's generosity and compassion towards others will never be matched. While the Bishop Plumbing family is heartbroken beyond words, we will honor Bob's memory by carrying on the Bishop Plumbing business for many, many years to come," according to the company.
Visitation for Melko will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner St. The funeral service will be held there at 10 a.m. Monday.
Metz, who is being held on no bond, is due in court again Nov. 14.