Body of missing Chicago man found in Back of the Yards, homicide investigation underway

CHICAGO - Chicago police have launched a homicide investigation after finding the body of a missing man in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.

The 47-year-old man was found unresponsive on Tuesday around 7:30 p.m. in a basement apartment in the 5300 block of South Hermitage Avenue, according to police.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene. The Cook County medical examiner's office identified him as Oscar Valenzuela.

His mother, Aida Lemos, said she's been searching for her son for six months after he was in an abusive relationship and was previously living with his partner.

She described Oscar as a good guy, a hard worker and a cancer survivor.

FOX 32 obtained cellphone video inside of Oscar's apartment, where Lemos said her son's body was found in a closet, wrapped in a blanket and buried under piles of clothes.

She said her son was stabbed and suffocated. Police told us his body was decomposed when it was discovered.

Lemos reported Oscar missing in March after last seeing him on Dec. 13. During that time, the family went to the home to gather his belongings after there was still no sign of him.

Relatives said Oscar lived at the apartment for six years. He leaves behind two daughters.

Neighbors were stunned by what happened.

"We do hope and have confidence in the police. They have already spoken to the landlord, said neighbor and pastor JRC Tyler.

Police have not said if the Oscar had any apparent injuries.

There is no one in custody. Area One detectives are investigating.