



LAKE COUNTY, Ill. -- A body burned beyond recognition that was found inside a car in Illinois was identified as that of a missing Milwaukee teacher.



Kathleen Ryan, a teacher at St. Augustine Preparatory Academy disappeared, and an investigation into her whereabouts spanned two states.



Authorities said dental records positively identified the remains.











Kathleen Ryan





Ryan's Pontiac was found charred on Route 41 near Gurnee, Illinois on Feb. 2.



Ryan's family was holding out hope the remains were not her.



"We knew Kathleen was very loved by her family and those who knew her, and we are working diligently to find answers for them," said Sheriff John Idleburg, Lake County Sheriff's Office.



Authorities in Lake County were working with the Milwaukee Police Department to investigate the cause of death.







Meanwhile, a vigil was held Monday night, Feb. 11 at St. Augustine Preparatory Academy in Ryan's honor.



