Orland Park Mourns Beloved 21-Year-Old Reanna Hammad After Tragic Death in Spears Woods; Community Rallies to Honor Her Life and Raise Mental Health Awareness

ORLAND PARK, IL — The Orland Park community is reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of 21-year-old Reanna Hammad, whose life was tragically cut short over the weekend. Her body was discovered on Saturday, May 18, 2025, along a walking trail in Spears Woods, a heavily wooded area that is part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County in unincorporated Palos Township. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed that Reanna died by suicide.

Reanna had been reported missing two days prior, on May 16, after she was last seen by her mother at their home around 11 a.m. Family members say that her disappearance was deeply out of character, prompting immediate concern and a community-led effort to help locate her. Flyers were distributed, social media posts were shared widely, and loved ones held onto hope that she would be found safe.

That hope was shattered when a hiker came across her body just off the trail in Spears Woods, a forest preserve area popular with nature lovers and joggers. Authorities from the Cook County Forest Preserve Police and the Palos Park Police Department responded to the scene and began their investigation, which did not indicate foul play. The following day, the Medical Examiner ruled her death a suicide, bringing a devastating sense of finality to those who knew and loved her.

A Bright Light Gone Too Soon

Reanna Hammad was described by family and friends as a gentle soul with a radiant smile and a deep sense of compassion. A graduate of Carl Sandburg High School, she had recently been exploring career options in social work and psychology, hoping to help others who struggled with mental health challenges. Her loved ones say she had a gift for listening and often served as a source of comfort to those around her.

“Reanna was the kind of person who would drop everything to be there for you,” said longtime friend Maya Rivera. “She had a quiet strength and a heart that could hold so much love. It’s devastating to think that she couldn’t see the light she brought into the world.”

In the wake of her passing, the Hammad family has asked for privacy as they navigate an unimaginable loss. “We are heartbroken,” said Reanna’s mother in a brief statement. “She was our world, and our lives will never be the same.”

Community Response and Mental Health Awareness

As news of Reanna’s death spread, community members have been gathering to offer support and to reflect on the importance of mental health awareness. A candlelight vigil is being planned at Centennial Park in Orland Park for later this week, where friends, family, and neighbors will come together to honor her memory.

Local leaders and advocates have also emphasized the need for more open conversations about mental health, especially among young adults. “This tragedy is a reminder that we need to break the stigma around mental illness,” said Megan Slater, a mental health counselor in the area. “No one should feel that they have to suffer in silence.”

Reanna’s story has already prompted dozens of local residents to reach out on social media with messages of support, sharing stories of their own mental health struggles and encouraging others to seek help when they need it.

Remembering Reanna

In honor of Reanna’s compassionate spirit, her family has announced plans to launch a memorial scholarship in her name, aimed at supporting students pursuing careers in mental health advocacy and social work. More details will be shared at her upcoming memorial service, expected to be held in the coming days.

As the community grieves, many are finding comfort in coming together — not just to mourn Reanna’s passing, but to celebrate the love, kindness, and empathy she brought into the lives of so many.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 through the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

If you are in crisis or know someone who may be at risk, please seek help immediately. The loss of Reanna Hammad has deeply affected the Orland Park community, and her memory serves as a powerful reminder of how crucial mental health support and awareness truly are.