Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic incident in Valparaiso, Indiana
Shanelle Burns, the assistant vice president of Advancement Operations & Campaign Planning at Loyola, tragically passed away on February 7 after sustaining severe injuries in an attack that took place in Valparaiso, Indiana on February 5. The incident involved Burns and her 19-year-old son Conner Kobold, according to a press release from the Valparaiso Police Department. Burns, who was 43 years old, was found unconscious at a residence on Diamond Boulevard and was rushed to a nearby hospital by the Valparaiso Fire Department, where she succumbed to her injuries two days later.
Details of the incident
On the evening of February 5, the Valparaiso Police Department received multiple calls from an unknown male, later identified as Kobold, requesting assistance at the 1350 block of Diamond Boulevard. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Burns with severe injuries and no pulse. The police believe that the incident was isolated to the individuals involved and posed no threat to the public.
Legal proceedings
Kobold was initially taken into custody on charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery, and strangulation. However, his charges were later upgraded to murder on February 9. He is currently being held at the Porter Jail House as the investigation continues.
Remembering Shanelle Burns
Burns had a remarkable career journey, starting as an assistant researcher at Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana before rising to the position of assistant vice president at Loyola after 22 years of dedicated service. She leaves behind her son, husband, and other extended family members.
Described as tenacious, kind, generous, and beautiful, Burns was deeply committed to providing her son with the best opportunities in life. She was known for her adventurous spirit and love for travel, especially when accompanied by her husband, Phil Cook, whom she married in 2021.
Supporting a cause in memory of Shanelle Burns
While Burns adored flowers, those wishing to honour her memory are encouraged to consider making donations to the National Alliance on Mental Illness in her memory. The obituary for Burns reflects on her life with love and admiration, celebrating her legacy of tenacity, kindness, and generosity that continues to inspire those who knew her.
As we remember Shanelle Burns, may her spirit shine through and her memory be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Featured image by Austin Hojdar / The Phoenix
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