Our beloved Nick Laureys, only 15 years old, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident in Crystal Lake, Illinois. Nick was walking home from an evening of fishing with his best friend, Zach, when an unknown driver struck him and fled the scene—leaving behind heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a family reeling from an unimaginable loss.
Nick had been living with me for the past two years alongside his two younger brothers, Chris (12) and Sam (4), and our fiercely loved cat, Oreo. From the moment he moved in, Nick became the heart of our home—a big brother, protector, helper, and the spirit that made our house feel alive. I bought a home large enough so each of the boys could have their own space, and Nick made it his mission to turn it into a place filled with laughter, learning, and love.
He was deeply rooted in the outdoors—whether he was working on his ATV, tinkering with my truck, or heading out to fish or shoot hoops at the neighbor’s donated basketball hoop. He loved gaming with his uncle, playing hide-and-seek with the kids using our ATVs out at the farm, and sharing long, thoughtful talks with the people closest to him. He wore his cross necklace every day, quietly holding onto faith and hope, even in moments when life was challenging.
Nick’s best friend Jacob recalls how they used to golf together, dreaming big dreams while finding peace in the simplicity of the game. Our dog Tara, who followed Nick like a shadow, still waits at the door each evening. And Oreo, his cat, has spent days lying on his bed as if waiting for him to come back home.
Nick was just learning to drive. He had high hopes of getting his license on his next birthday. He was full of ambition and heart, pushing boundaries as teens do, but never crossing the line of love, trust, or loyalty. He was a protective older brother, a loyal friend, and a boy who gave his all to those he cared about.
Our family and our Crystal Lake/Woodstock North community are now grappling with the suddenness of a tragedy that should never have happened. The driver who hit Nick still has not been found. We continue to hope and pray that justice will come, but right now, our focus is on honoring Nick’s life and helping his younger brothers and loved ones navigate this deep and painful loss.
We are now raising funds to cover funeral and memorial expenses. Any remaining donations will go into a trust in Nick’s name, which will help support his siblings and hopefully bring something positive from this heartbreak. One of our family’s greatest hopes is to create a reflective safety product—a shirt or drawstring backpack—that could help prevent future accidents and keep other kids safe walking home at night. We would love to involve students and teachers at Woodstock North in designing this memorial item—something practical, meaningful, and built from the spirit of who Nick was.
I’ve lived in this community for nearly 20 years. You’ve shown me kindness before, and now, in the darkest of hours, I’m reaching out once more. Grieving while trying to remain strong for two young boys is an overwhelming task. If you’re able to give, share, or even send a word of support, it means more than I can ever say.
I may not respond right away. The pain is raw and heavy. But please know that every gesture is felt and appreciated. If you’d like me to reach out to you personally in the future, include your contact information—I would love to reconnect when I’m able.
Funeral services are expected to take place within the next two weeks, once planning is finalized the week of July 6th. Updates will be shared through our family and local community pages.
Nick, you are loved beyond words, missed beyond measure, and remembered in every starry night sky, every burst of laughter, every echo of your footsteps on the porch.
Rest in peace, sweet boy. You gave more in 15 years than many give in a lifetime.
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