CHICAGO, IL – A tragic incident occurred in downtown Chicago on the evening of Wednesday, July 31, 2025, when a 27-year-old man fell to his death from the 22nd floor of the London House Hotel, located at 85 E Wacker Drive.
Authorities say the incident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m., when the man fell from an upper-level balcony or rooftop area onto street level. Emergency responders, including officers from the Chicago Police Department’s 1st District and paramedics, arrived on scene within minutes after multiple 911 calls were made by witnesses in the area.
The man, who has not yet been publicly identified pending notification of his family, was found unresponsive at the scene with traumatic injuries. He was immediately transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival, according to police and hospital officials.
The Area 3 Detectives Division has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fall. As of now, officials have not confirmed whether the incident was accidental, intentional, or if foul play is suspected. Authorities are reviewing security camera footage from the hotel and nearby buildings, interviewing witnesses, and conducting forensic assessments of the scene.
“We are in the early stages of the investigation,” a spokesperson from the Chicago Police Department stated late Wednesday night. “We ask the public to be patient as we gather facts. Out of respect for the victim and his loved ones, we will withhold personal details until the next of kin have been notified.”
The London House Hotel, a historic and upscale property located at the corner of Wacker Drive and Michigan Avenue, is well known for its rooftop lounge and restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Chicago River. The 22nd floor and rooftop areas are typically open to both hotel guests and the public, particularly during evening hours when the rooftop is popular for dining and social events.
Guests and passersby described a chaotic and emotional scene as emergency crews responded and quickly cordoned off the block surrounding the hotel entrance. Traffic along Wacker Drive and Michigan Avenue was temporarily diverted while investigators secured the area and collected evidence.
Some witnesses reported hearing a commotion just moments before the fall occurred, but officials have not confirmed any further details. The hotel has so far declined to issue a public statement, pending the outcome of the police investigation.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to conduct an autopsy in the coming days to determine the official cause and manner of death.
This incident marks another tragic moment in the city’s summer, raising questions about rooftop safety and access protocols at high-rise properties in urban areas.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Area 3 Detectives or submit tips anonymously through CPD’s tip line or Chicago’s CrimeStoppers.
