A body found in Horner Park yesterday has been identified as 22-year-old Chicago actress Violet Hansen.

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Authorities confirmed the identity late Sunday following an autopsy and fingerprint analysis. The discovery was made by a jogger early Saturday morning near a wooded area of the park, located just off the North Branch Trail. Foul play has not been ruled out, police say, and the investigation remains ongoing.

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Hansen, a rising star in Chicago’s vibrant theatre community, was known for her standout performances at Steppenwolf Theatre and the Goodman, and had recently started pivoting to featured primetime guest appearances, most notably on Oak Park. 

Friends and collaborators described Ms. Hansen as a magnetic performer whose passion for storytelling lit up every room.

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“She had this infectious energy — a spark,” said Lauren Park, a fellow actor who worked with Hansen in a 2024 production of 'Growing Pains'. “She brought joy, commitment, and a genuine kindness to every rehearsal. She was going places.”

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In addition to her artistic talents, Hansen was a recent graduate of the Theatre School at DePaul University and had been cast in an upcoming independent film scheduled to begin production later this fall.

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Family members released a statement Sunday evening, remembering Hansen as “an incredible artist and an even more incredible person — beloved daughter, sister, and friend.”

 

“She lived fully, loved deeply, and created beauty in everything she touched,” the statement read. “Our hearts are shattered.”

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Authorities are urging anyone who may have been in or near Horner Park late Friday evening to come forward with information.

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No further details have been released regarding the cause of death.

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A memorial is being planned by the family, with details to be shared in the coming days.

 

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[This is a developing story. Check back with the Chicago Tribune for updates.]

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