Chicago Kayaker Killed After Swan Attack

A Villa Park man drowned in a Des Plaines area pond this past week after he allegedly got in a fight with nearby swans.

37-year-old father of two Anthony Hensley was enjoying a nice day out in his kayak as part of his job. Hensley worked for a company that uses swans and dogs to keep geese away from properties.

While checking on a group of swans near the Bay Colony condominiums in Des Plains a group of swans swam at him, causing him to roll off his kayak into the water.

While an investigation is still ongoing Cook County sheriff’s investigators believe Hensley may have gotten to close to a swan nesting area which caused the swans to go into attack mode.

Hensley tried to make his way back to shore as the swans continued their chase. Eye witnesses tell the Sun Times that by the time rescue workers arrived on the scene Hensley had already drowned.

According to Hensley’s father-in-law he loved working with animals and it was that love that possibly led to his death:

“Maybe he didn’t fight back enough when the swan attacked him. Maybe he didn’t want to hurt the animal. I can’t understand how this was possible.”

A memorial fund has been setup to help Anthony Hensley’s family since he died without life insurance.

If you would like to offer your condolences and give to the fund donations can be sent to Amy Hensley, c/o Steuerle Funeral Home, 350 S. Ardmore Ave. Villa Park, IL 60181.