Juan Vega-Montoya, 37, Charged in Connection with Pregnant Chicago Woman’s Death Found Dumped in Lake County
A significant development has emerged in the case of a Chicago woman discovered deceased in Lake County last month, as Juan Vega-Montoya, 37, of Chicago, faces charges linked to her death.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Vega-Montoya following a thorough review of evidence, notably surveillance footage indicating that he picked up Meghan Lewis, 39, on November 26 in the vicinity of Cicero and Belden avenues. Allegedly, an argument ensued between the two individuals, resulting in the tragic demise of Lewis, who was 16-weeks pregnant, due to strangulation.
Authorities revealed that Vega-Montoya transported Lewis’ body back to his residence, leaving it in his vehicle for a distressing two-day period before abandoning her remains along the side of Hunt Club Road on November 28.
Following a traffic stop, Vega-Montoya was taken into custody on Monday, facing charges of concealing a homicidal death, as stated by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The investigative materials have been forwarded to Chicago police, with imminent expectations of murder charges being pursued against Vega-Montoya, according to the sheriff’s office.
Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg expressed deep dismay over the callous act, condemning the manner in which Lewis’ body was disposed of, asserting, “It is simply unconscionable to kill someone then dump their body on the side of a roadway, in a humiliating fashion.” He commended the tireless efforts of his team and collaborating agencies in tirelessly seeking justice for Lewis.
Echoing Sheriff Idleburg’s sentiments, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart applauded the collective efforts involved in tracking down the offender, ensuring thorough investigations across county lines, remarking, “Without their tireless pursuit – across county lines – we would not have been able to secure justice for Megan.”
Scheduled for a court appearance on Wednesday morning, Vega-Montoya’s apprehension marks a significant step forward in the ongoing pursuit of justice in this distressing case.