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March 18, 2010

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Pekin Fire Victim Identified

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By Ashley McNamee

Story Published: Jan 28, 2010 at 8:22 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jan 28, 2010 at 8:22 PM CDT

Pekin police have identified the man found inside a burning SUV Wednesday night.

The Tazewell County Coroner says 26-year-old Curtis S. Byars of Pekin died of soot and smoke inhalation.

A witness says he saw the car on fire around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday night near Fifth and Court Streets.

The 2007 Chevy Equinox was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived on the scene.

Police say they were unaware anyone was in the car until the fire was put out.

The coroner has ordered toxicology reports. Police say the investigation into the circumstances of Byars death is ongoing, although they do not believe foul play is involved.

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View Oldest Comments First

Sunday, Jan 31 at 11:27 PM V wrote ...

@Steve and Barb- thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. No parent should have to go through this pain and grief. Deepest condolences.

Sunday, Jan 31 at 10:16 AM Steve and Barb Byars wrote ...

Son,we have experienced a great loss. It is hard to understand. A close friend of yours told me yesterday that God must have needed you in heaven. That he needed you to help solve a problem and that he called upon you and your communication skills to help. We keep wishing this is a nightmare and we will wake up from it with you here. Our hearts are broken. We know that some day we will meet again- for this we are greatful. Barb, Karen, Dustin, Cal and I love you and will miss you greatly.

Saturday, Jan 30 at 3:36 AM Richard wrote ...

I can't even put into words how I feel, Curt.

Friday, Jan 29 at 10:26 PM Cori Ellis wrote ...

The positive impact Curt had on the world is can not be emphasized enough. His presence here will be greatly missed but the imapact he left in his short time with us fills a years hundreds times his 26.

Friday, Jan 29 at 7:16 PM Lori and Andi wrote ...

We knew Curtis since he was a young boy...a brilliant mind and a sweet heart. See you in heaven. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with Lori, Steve and Stephanie

Friday, Jan 29 at 6:59 PM Amanda V wrote ...

Curt - your heart will love on as a part of all of ours. Give Kurt Vonnegut a kiss for me.

Friday, Jan 29 at 5:34 PM bama wrote ...

Phifer Hall misses you man. Comfort and prayers to the Byars family.

Friday, Jan 29 at 4:16 PM Old friend wrote ...

Curt..man..This is gutwrenching..all tho we never hungout much outside of school we did in school from 7th-12th..U were one of the good guys and had a great sence of humor...Im sorry to the family and hope u can find peace..RIP Curt

Friday, Jan 29 at 12:55 PM Tommy wrote ...

I can remeber being involved with many productions with him at PCHS... he was very talented.... my thoughts and prayers are with his family RIP

Friday, Jan 29 at 12:25 PM no one 71 wrote ...

they say they dont believe foul play is involved but how did the fire start. R.I.P>

Friday, Jan 29 at 9:41 AM Friend wrote ...

My prayers go out to the Byars family.May you be able to find peace in this difficult time

Friday, Jan 29 at 2:18 AM James wrote ...

Curt, I can't believe it. I still remember having class and speech with you years ago. You were just always a positive addition to wherever you were man. Certainly a lot of people are hurting right now. You all have my condolences for losing this great person.

Thursday, Jan 28 at 11:16 PM Patticus wrote ...

Curt Byars all of us miss you immensely and you will be in our thoughts throughout the season. We love you Curt. You lived your life to the fullest and touched the lives of many.

Thursday, Jan 28 at 9:15 PM Mike Higgs wrote ...

Curt, You will be missed by many. R.I.P my friend

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