Ottawa, IL — A routine jump turned tragic on Monday when Dr. Noel Liu, a respected dentist from East Peoria, was fatally injured in a skydiving accident at Skydive Chicago in Ottawa. He was 48 years old.
The La Salle County Coroner’s Office confirmed Dr. Liu’s identity in a statement released Wednesday. Known for his warm demeanor, professionalism, and dedication to his patients, Dr. Liu’s sudden and shocking death has left his family, colleagues, and the Peoria community reeling.
Coroner Rich Ploch said a forensic autopsy was performed on Tuesday, but preliminary findings remain pending as further forensic and toxicology tests are completed. Investigators from the La Salle County Coroner’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office are actively reviewing the incident with support from both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Dr. Liu was an experienced dental professional with a thriving practice in Peoria, where he was known not only for his clinical expertise but also for the personal care and attention he gave to every patient who walked through his doors. Outside the office, he was a man of adventure, passion, and curiosity — attributes that led him to the thrill of skydiving.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal jump have not yet been made public, and authorities say the investigation could take several weeks as multiple agencies work to determine what went wrong.
Those who knew Dr. Liu remember him as more than a dentist — he was a community pillar, a loving family man, and a kind soul who approached life with energy and generosity. His loss is a deep blow to those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. The community is being asked to keep Dr. Liu’s family, friends, and staff in their thoughts during this time of immense grief.
Gone far too soon, Dr. Noel Liu’s life was defined by service, passion, and compassion — and he will be dearly missed
