He vanished mid-swim, and no one could help. **Joshua Ellis**, 48, was last seen on **October 4, 2025**, attempting to cross the **Illinois River** near the Marshall–Putnam County line. Witnesses said he entered the water from the **Marshall County** side and appeared to be swimming steadily toward **Putnam**, but only moments later,
he began to struggle before disappearing beneath the surface. Despite immediate calls for help, the swift current made rescue efforts impossible.Emergency crews from multiple agencies, including the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office**, **Putnam County Emergency Management**, and
Peoria Dive Team**, began searching the river late Saturday evening. Boats equipped with sonar scanned the area for hours, but darkness and strong currents hindered progress. The search resumed at first light on Sunday, when divers located Joshua’s body downstream. He was officially pronounced deceased by the **Putnam County investigator**, who classified the case as an accidental drowning.
Joshua’s passing has deeply affected the communities of **Princeton** and **Putnam County**, where he was known for his steady kindness and willingness to help others. Friends describe him as a man who felt most at peace outdoors — whether hiking, fishing, or spending quiet moments by the water. His deep appreciation for nature was a defining part of who he was.
In the days following his death, neighbors and friends have shared tributes on social media, expressing heartbreak and gratitude for the impact Joshua had on their lives. Many recalled his humor, reliability, and calm spirit — qualities that made him someone people naturally trusted. A memorial gathering is being planned along the riverbank he loved so much, where candles and flowers will honor his memory.Joshua Ellis’s untimely loss serves as a painful reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the fragility of life.
