On June 6, 2008, a 30-year-old mother of three, MeLisa Cleary, was reported missing from her home in Mackinaw, Illinois.Peoria Journal Star: Missing mother's body found, family say (June 9, 2008) The report was issued after family members spotted her empty Ford Explorer parked a mile from her home. The following Monday, her body was discovered near a rural stretch of railroad tracks 22 miles from Mackinaw.Peoria Journal Star: Missing mother's body found, family say (June 9, 2008) Her death was ruled a homicide, since the body showed signs of blunt force trauma, but exactly how she died or who killed her has not been determined.CNN: Missing mom's body was found by railroad tracks(December 30, 2008)
Troubled Marriage
According to Cleary's sister, Brandy Gerard, Cleary and her husband had been fighting prior to the incident, and had agreed to separate after 12 years together, including 2 years of marriage. Gerard stated that Cleary had told her that she feared for her life.Peoria Journal Star: Missing mother's body found, family say (June 9, 2008)
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June 9
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The same day the body was found, her husband Daniel Cleary was seen leaving the house with their children and a car full of luggageCNN: Missing mom's body was found by railroad tracks(December 30, 2008)
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Amber Alert issued for children, who were later found at a motel with Daniel Cleary and his motherCNN: Missing mom's body was found by railroad tracks(December 30, 2008)
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Husband Daniel Cleary was questioned by police but not taken into custodyPeoria Journal Star: Worst fears came true for Cleary's family (June 11, 2008)
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