Trucking Company CEO Dane Koteski Found Dead in His Building — Harrowing Details Revealed

A trucking company CEO was found dead in a burning building last week, sparking an investigation that led to the swift arrest of a suspect.

Authorities responded to a fire at ATG Truckload in Crestwood, Illinois, on March 5 at approximately 4:05 p.m. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, but inside, they discovered the body of Dane Koteski, the company’s CEO, on the second floor amid thick smoke.

The Crestwood Police Department launched a death investigation, bringing in the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force. State Fire Marshals also joined to examine potential arson.

As investigators worked through the night, they identified a suspect—an employee of Koteski. Authorities determined the crime was an isolated event specifically targeting the CEO.

The search for the suspect led investigators across state lines. By early morning, officers tracked the individual to a truck stop in Holland, Michigan. Working with local police, they arrested the suspect at 5:15 a.m. Central Time.

Authorities credited swift police work for the quick arrest of the suspect. In a statement shared online, police thanked the Village of Crestwood for its support, as well as the Holland Police Department and the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force for their role in apprehending the suspect before they could flee any further.

Meanwhile, an autopsy by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the case as a homicide. The report revealed that Koteski died from neck injuries caused by a sharp or pointed object.

The unnamed suspect is currently being held at the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office in Michigan on a murder warrant. Crestwood police are working alongside the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office as the investigation continues. Officials anticipate the suspect will be extradited to Illinois by the end of the week.

Koteski, originally from Macedonia, was deeply involved in his community. Neighbors say he was an active member of a local Serbian church and a car club. He also leaves behind a young son.

Residents in the area were shaken by the tragedy. “This is extremely sad that a neighbor would be killed. This is beyond horror,” said Darlene Adams, who lives not far from Koteski.

Adams often saw Koteski’s daily routine. “It seems to me he goes to work early and comes home, takes care of his dogs, and sees his son,” she said. She added that she’d recently noticed things were different but didn’t know why.

In the wake of his death, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by Zoran Nikolovski to help cover funeral expenses and support Koteski’s son’s college tuition. “It is with my deepest sorrow to announce the death of our dear friend, Dane Koteski,” the fundraiser description read.

Loved ones remembered him as a devoted father, son, and brother. They also described him as someone known for his “generosity, friendship, and kindness.”

Koteski often reflected on the company’s humble beginnings. He built ATG Truckload from the ground up, turning a small family-run operation into a thriving business. Founded in April 2010, the company started with just one truck and a vision.

He and his family launched ATG from the basement of their home, investing their entire savings into the business. Unable to afford marketing services, they designed their own logo and website. Every dollar went toward keeping the company moving—fueling both trucks and dreams.

As word spread, truck-driving friends joined Koteski in his mission. With financial backing from supporters who believed in his vision, ATG expanded beyond the basement, first into a small office in Justice, Illinois, and later into larger spaces as the business grew.

Through it all, Koteski credited faith, hard work, and the dedication of his team for ATG’s success. He expressed deep gratitude to the drivers, brokers, office staff, and families who supported the company’s journey.

Under his leadership, ATG became a key player in transporting refrigerated goods across the country. His dream was for the company to continue serving the nation for decades to come—a legacy now left in the hands of those who shared his vision.

Koteski’s impact on the trucking industry and his community was undeniable. And his dedication to his work, his faith, and his family defined his life.

Now, those who knew and loved him will gather to honor his memory. Koteski, a resident of Burr Ridge, was born in Macedonia on May 9, 1978 and died on March 5, 2025.

A visitation was held on Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at St. Kiril Metodij Macedonia Church. Following the service, Koteski will be laid to rest at Clarendon Hills Cemetery.