Corboy & Demetrio Seeks to Preserve Evidence in Downers Grove Storm Sewer Tragedy

August 6, 2026

For Immediate Release:

Corboy & Demetrio has been retained by a man that was trapped in a storm sewer in Downers Grove on July 27, 2026.  The Chicago firm has filed an Emergency Bill of Discovery in Cook County Circuit Court’s Chancery Division to seek and preserve records, reports and documents relating to the sewer project, including the identity of all contractors and design engineering firms involved in the project.

“This unimaginable tragedy will be investigated thoroughly to ensure that those responsible immediately correct the flaws that allowed this to happen,” said Corboy & Demetrio Partner Bill Gibbs, who along with Michelle M. Kohut and Edward G. Willer, is representing the worker.

The Emergency Bill asks a judge to order that all photographs, witness statements, investigative reports, and OSHA reports be preserved and produced.

“The Bill will ensure access to evidence to determine whether Corboy & Demetrio will file a lawsuit on our client’s behalf,” Kohut said.

In addition, the law firm is seeking access to and the preservation of all maintenance records/logs/diaries maintained by Vortex Lining Systems; a list of the names and addresses of all individuals who worked on or participated in work on the subject storm sewer system for a period of three years up to and including July 27, 2026; copies of all meetings conducted by Vortex discussing/addressing the injuries to our client; and all records from Vortex for work performed on the subject storm sewer system for a period of three years up to including July 27, 2026. 

According to a Statement issued by the Village of Downers Grove, on July 27, 2026, at approximately 12:50 p.m., Downers Grove police officers were flagged down by a Vortex employee working in the 800 block of Curtiss Street. The employee reported that two crew members were trapped in the storm sewer below the street. The Downers Grove Fire Department responded and immediately began the rescue. 

Media Contact: Helen Lucaitis, Esq., Corboy & Demetrio, HHL@corboydemetrio.com, 312-346-3191 (office), 312-550-2077 (cell).