Latest News

February 27, 2026

  1. Holiday Hills Fire Damages Garage, Two Homes; Four Residents and Dog Displaced: A fire that began in a detached garage on South Riverview Drive in Holiday Hills quickly spread to two nearby houses Friday afternoon, resulting in extensive damage. Emergency crews from multiple fire departments responded to the scene just after noon. Both homes were left uninhabitable, forcing four residents and a dog to seek temporary shelter. No serious injuries were reported as a result of the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 27)

February 25, 2026

  1. Firefighters and Neighbor Honored for Rescuing Family From Icy Lake Near Cary: First responders and a local resident received recognition from the Cary Fire Protection District for their involvement in a water rescue on January 13 at Lake Killarney, located near the 6200 block of Londonderry Drive in unincorporated Cary. A mother and her son fell through the ice while attempting to ice fish, prompting a neighbor and both off-duty and on-duty firefighters to intervene. Awards presented included the Milton A. Neeley Lifesaving Award, Unit Citations, and a Community Service Award. The recognition highlights the community's teamwork during the emergency. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 25)

  2. Firefighters Stop Deck Fire From Spreading to Home in Cary: Firefighters responded to a deck fire attached to a home on Moders Avenue in Cary on Wednesday morning. The Cary Fire Protection District arrived promptly to find flames coming from the covered rear deck and were able to quickly bring the fire under control before it extended to the main structure. The sole resident present at the time was able to evacuate safely, and the home remained habitable following the incident. Fire officials attributed the limited damage to their swift intervention. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 25)

February 24, 2026

  1. McHenry County Property Owner Fined $35,000 for Repeated Code Violations: A McHenry County judge has ordered a property owner near Cary to pay more than $35,000 after repeated code violations were documented at a home in the 800 block of Tuxedo Lane. County inspections found the residential site was being used as an unauthorized storage yard for vehicles, machinery, and assorted materials. The lawsuit, filed in June 2024, sought penalties due to ongoing noncompliance. The legal action was resolved following a bench trial and resulted in a substantial fine for the owner. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 24)

  2. Wonder Lake House Fire Leaves Young Family Homeless and Pet Injured: A house fire on the 2000 block of Winterberry Trail in Wonder Lake displaced a recently married couple expecting a child. Multiple fire departments from Lake, McHenry, and Kenosha counties responded to the blaze, which was reported Saturday afternoon. The fire caused severe damage to the home and left the family's cat injured and trapped inside. Emergency crews were able to reach the scene within minutes, but the residence was left uninhabitable. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 24)

February 22, 2026

  1. Two Hospitalized, Cat Rescued After House Fire in Wonder Lake Causes Major Damage: A house fire on the 2000 block of Winterberry Trail in Wonder Lake led to two people being transported to the hospital Saturday afternoon. Firefighters from multiple counties responded quickly and were able to rescue a trapped cat from the residence. The fire caused notable damage to the two-story home, particularly affecting the attached garage area. The incident has left the residents displaced as authorities continue to assess the situation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 22)

February 20, 2026

  1. Crystal Lake Woman, 25, Dies in Hoffman Estates Crash; Funeral Services Planned: A 25-year-old woman from Crystal Lake, who spent her childhood in Lake Zurich, died following a single-vehicle crash on Barrington Road near Higgins Road in Hoffman Estates on February 13. Emergency crews responded to the scene near Ascension Saint Alexius Medical Center but were unable to save her. The crash caused significant damage to her vehicle near the Arthur L. Janura Preserve. Arrangements for her funeral have since been made by her family. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 20)

February 16, 2026

  1. Missing Girl Located After Search Along Fox River in Fox River Grove: Emergency responders were called to Lions Park in Fox River Grove on Saturday evening after reports suggested a teenager may have jumped into the Fox River. Crews from the Fox River Grove and Cary fire departments conducted an extensive search of the area after finding personal items at the scene. The girl was later located and taken to the hospital for evaluation. Authorities carried out the search protocol to ensure all safety measures were followed and the situation was resolved. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 16)

February 14, 2026

  1. Lake in the Hills Man Faces Charges for Sexual Assault of Two Children: A 35-year-old man from Lake in the Hills, Illinois, has been charged with multiple felonies after allegedly sexually assaulting two children, including one who suffered ongoing abuse from a young age. The charges follow an investigation initiated after a 10-year-old girl came forward in late January, revealing years of abuse. Authorities also identified a second child who reported being assaulted during a visit to the suspect's residence in Cary. Law enforcement continues to pursue the case. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 14)

  2. Cary Man Sentenced to Three Years for Fatal Wrong-Way Crash in Barrington: A Cary resident was sentenced to three years in prison after admitting guilt in a 2025 crash in Barrington that killed off-duty Glenview Police Officer Robert Fryc, also from Cary. The incident occurred early in the morning when the defendant, driving northbound on Northwest Highway, crossed into the southbound lanes and collided with Fryc’s vehicle. The crash led to significant community mourning, including participation from many police departments statewide. The case drew notable attention within the local area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 14)

  3. Fire Displaces Residents in Unincorporated McHenry Neighborhood: A fire broke out early Saturday morning in the 2500 block of North Freedom Drive, just outside McHenry, Illinois, leaving residents without a home. Responding fire departments arrived within minutes to find flames coming from the attic of an attached garage. The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office assisted in evacuating three individuals from the house. The blaze caused significant damage to the living area and has left those affected seeking temporary shelter. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 14)

February 5, 2026

  1. Sprinkler System Limits Damage in Early Morning Fire at Crystal Lake Complex: An early morning fire at a multifamily residential complex on Ambassador Circle in Crystal Lake was contained thanks to an active sprinkler system and prompt fire department response. Firefighters arrived shortly after 1 a.m. to find smoke coming from a garage and successfully extinguished a small fire that had been kept in check by the building’s sprinklers. Damage was limited to one garage, preventing further destruction or injuries. Authorities credit the safety systems for minimizing loss in the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 5)

February 1, 2026

  1. Cary Police Squad Car Struck in Traffic Accident; No Injuries Reported: A Cary Police Department squad car was involved in a traffic collision on the morning of January 24 at the intersection of U.S. Route 14 and Cary-Algonquin Road. According to authorities, the squad car was turning when another vehicle struck its rear passenger side. Both the police officer and the other driver, a 59-year-old man from Vernon Hills, were unharmed. The McHenry County Sheriff's Department is investigating the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 1)

January 29, 2026

  1. Officials Probe Late-Night Fire Near Cary After Initial Explosion Report: Fire crews in unincorporated Cary responded late Wednesday night to reports of a blaze near the intersection of Rawson Bridge Road and Beach Way Road. Initial 911 calls suggested a possible explosion involving a residence, but responders located an outdoor fire involving trash and tools instead. Firefighters quickly contained the fire, preventing damage to a nearby home. Authorities continue to investigate the cause but confirmed there was no explosion or structure fire. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 29)

  2. Paramedics Deliver Twins in Nunda Rural Ambulance En Route to Hospital: Nunda Rural Fire Protection District paramedics delivered twin babies in an ambulance while transporting a woman to the hospital on a Thursday morning. The call, which initially reported labor contractions, quickly escalated as both babies were born just minutes apart during the drive. The mother and twins were taken to Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital, where they were reported to be in good condition. This marked the first live delivery for several crew members involved in the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 29)

January 25, 2026

  1. Severe House Fire Destroys Home Near McHenry During Frigid Temperatures: Firefighters responded to a major house fire early Saturday in the 3300 block of North Bayview Lane in unincorporated McHenry, Lake County. The blaze, reported shortly after 2 a.m., destroyed the home as wind chill temperatures dropped to minus 30 degrees, complicating firefighting efforts. Multiple 911 calls were made, prompting a large response from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District. The structure was ultimately reduced to ruins, and no injuries were immediately reported. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 25)

January 24, 2026

  1. House Destroyed by Fire During Subzero Wind Chills Near McHenry: Firefighters responded to a major house fire in the 3300 block of North Bayview Lane in unincorporated McHenry early Saturday morning, facing wind chills near -30 degrees. Upon arrival, crews found the single-family home fully engulfed and battled flames for hours. The fire threatened a nearby detached garage, but no residents were present when the fire broke out. The blaze ultimately left the structure completely destroyed. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 24)

January 22, 2026

  1. Funeral Services Announced for McHenry Man Fatally Struck on Route 120: Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for Ronald Wills, a 64-year-old resident of McHenry, after he died as a result of being struck by a car while crossing Route 120 near Meadow Lane. Authorities from the McHenry Police Department and Fire Protection District responded to the accident last Thursday evening. A crash investigation remains ongoing following the incident. Wills was remembered as both a father and a grandfather, and services are scheduled for Friday. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 22)

January 20, 2026

  1. Cary Resident Charged in Burglary at Downtown Crystal Lake Barber Shop: A 44-year-old man from Cary has been charged following a reported burglary at O’Grady’s Barber Shop in downtown Crystal Lake on January 9. Authorities allege the suspect forcibly entered the business during the early morning hours and stole hair clippers valued at over $500. He faces felony charges of burglary and theft, as well as a misdemeanor for damaging a power box on the property. The incident remains under review in McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 20)

January 19, 2026

  1. Two Injured in Major Fire at Downtown McHenry Bakery and Pet Store: A significant fire broke out Sunday afternoon at a commercial property on North Riverside Drive in downtown McHenry, Illinois, impacting both Riverside Bake Shop and Reese’s Barkery & Pawtique. Emergency crews from 30 departments responded to the scene, where two people were reported injured. Firefighters worked extensively to control the blaze, which caused major damage to the businesses. This incident has had a profound effect on the local community. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 19)

January 16, 2026

  1. Pedestrian Fatally Injured After Being Hit by Car on Route 120 in McHenry: A 64-year-old man died after being struck by a car while attempting to cross Route 120 near Meadow Lane in McHenry on Thursday evening. According to police, the vehicle that hit the pedestrian then collided with a second car. Emergency responders from the McHenry Police Department and McHenry Township Fire Protection District arrived at the scene shortly after 5:20 p.m. The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 16)

  2. Coroner Identifies Man Killed in Pedestrian Accident on Route 120 in McHenry: A 64-year-old resident of McHenry, Ronald Wills, died after being struck by a car while attempting to cross Route 120 near Meadow Lane on Thursday evening. Emergency responders from the McHenry Police Department and McHenry Township Fire Protection District arrived at the scene around 5:20 p.m., finding the victim unresponsive. Authorities report that a red 2008 Ford Focus was traveling eastbound at the time of the incident. The investigation into the crash is ongoing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 16)

January 15, 2026

  1. Investigation Finds No Malicious Intent After Suspicious Bus Incident in Cary: School officials in Cary investigated an incident where students were approached by a school bus not typically assigned to them, leading to concern and a police response. The driver was confirmed to be a transportation employee, and no inappropriate intent was found. The event prompted local authorities and schools to reassure families about student safety. The incident took place near the Lyons Ridge subdivision along Three Oaks Road and concluded without further safety concerns. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 15)

January 14, 2026

  1. Off-Duty Firefighter Rescues Teen After Ice Accident on Lake Killarney Near Cary: A rookie firefighter who had not yet been officially sworn in played a crucial role in rescuing a teenager after both the teen and his mother fell through the ice while ice fishing on Lake Killarney near Cary. The incident occurred in the 6200 block of Londonderry Drive Tuesday afternoon, prompting a swift response from the Cary Fire Protection District and the McHenry County Sheriff's Office. A neighbor also ended up in the water attempting to assist. All individuals were ultimately pulled to safety. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 14)

January 13, 2026

  1. Three Hospitalized After Falling Through Ice on Lake Killarney Near Cary: Emergency crews responded to Lake Killarney near Cary after two individuals fell through the ice while ice fishing, and a neighbor also fell in while attempting a rescue. The incident took place on the 6200 block of Londonderry Drive on Tuesday afternoon. All three people were rescued and transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Authorities remind residents to exercise caution on frozen bodies of water after multiple individuals were exposed to cold water. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 13)

January 9, 2026

  1. House Fire in Crystal Lake Displaces Residents and Injures One Person: A house fire in the 1400 block of Candlewood Drive in Crystal Lake on Thursday afternoon caused extensive damage, leaving the property uninhabitable and residents without a home. Multiple fire departments responded, and the incident required an upgrade to a mutual aid response. One individual sustained injuries in the blaze, which resulted in an estimated $100,000 in damage. The cause of the fire and further details about the displaced residents were not released. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 9)

January 8, 2026

  1. Crystal Lake Officer Reprimanded After Rifle Lost and Recovered Near School: A Crystal Lake police officer received a written reprimand after losing his personal rifle, which was later found by a convicted felon. The weapon, initially left on a vehicle trunk at the officer's home, went missing after the officer's spouse inadvertently drove away with it. The felon allegedly retrieved the gun and concealed it in bushes at the Crystal Lake Public Library near a local school. Authorities conducted an investigation, and the officer reported the incident to superiors. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 8)

January 6, 2026

  1. Barrington Hills Barn Destroyed by Fire, No Injuries Reported: A large barn on Porter School Road in Barrington Hills was destroyed in a fire late Saturday night, but no injuries to people or animals were reported, according to local fire officials. The Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District responded with assistance from multiple departments after receiving a report of a fully engulfed structure. Crews worked to contain the blaze and protect nearby properties, utilizing tanker trucks due to a lack of hydrants. The fire was ultimately extinguished without further incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 6)

January 4, 2026

  1. Community Supports Cary Family After House Fire Claims Home and Pet: A severe house fire on Mulberry Lane in Cary led to the total loss of a family's home and belongings, with a missing dog tragically found deceased after the incident. The Cary Fire Protection District and neighboring departments responded quickly, but the extensive damage displaced the residents. Local community members have since organized efforts to collect donations and essentials for the family. The cause of the fire is under investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 4)

January 1, 2026

  1. Cary House Fire Displaces Family and Leaves Dog Missing: A significant house fire on the 1300 block of Mulberry Lane in Cary resulted in the complete destruction of the residence and its contents. Multiple fire departments responded to the scene, battling the blaze for several hours on Wednesday afternoon. Although firefighters arrived within minutes, they were unable to save the home or rescue the family's missing dog. The incident has left the affected family without a home as they search for their pet. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 1)

December 25, 2025

  1. Young Boy Returns to School After Lawn Mower Accident Near Cary: Cohen Liggett, age 4, was severely injured in a lawn mower accident on August 30, 2025, in unincorporated Cary, Illinois. Emergency responders from the Cary Fire Protection District and Lake County Sheriff's Office arrived quickly following a traumatic injury report. Cohen underwent a rotationplasty procedure and has since made significant progress, returning to school with a prosthetic leg. His recovery marks a notable milestone for his family and community. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 25)

December 21, 2025

  1. McHenry County Fire Departments Join Operation North Pole Event for Children: Several fire departments from McHenry County participated in the Operation North Pole Christmas train event, aimed at providing support and joy to children facing serious or terminal illnesses and their families. The event marked the return of the holiday train after a five-year pause, offering gifts to the children and collecting food donations for local pantries. Residents in the Chicago area were encouraged to show support as families took part in this annual trip. The initiative sought to uplift local families during the holiday season. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 21)

December 18, 2025

  1. Five Hospitalized After Multi-Vehicle Crash on Route 31 Near Crystal Lake: A four-vehicle accident on Route 31 near Half Mile Road in unincorporated Crystal Lake resulted in one car overturning and five individuals being taken to the hospital early Monday morning. The incident occurred near TC Industries, prompting responses from the Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department and McHenry County Sheriff’s Office. The driver allegedly responsible for the crash fled the scene but was apprehended and now faces charges. Authorities confirmed that no one remained trapped in the overturned vehicle upon arrival. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 18)

December 15, 2025

  1. Five Hospitalized After Four-Vehicle Crash Closes Route 31 Near Crystal Lake: A four-vehicle collision occurred on Route 31 near Half Mile Road in unincorporated Crystal Lake early Monday, resulting in one car overturning and significant damage. Emergency responders from Crystal Lake Fire Rescue and the McHenry County Sheriff's Office arrived shortly after 6:15 a.m. and confirmed five people required hospitalization due to the crash. Route 31 remained closed for several hours as crews managed the scene and cleared debris. No one was found inside the overturned vehicle when first responders arrived. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 15)

December 10, 2025

  1. Live Power Lines Spark House Fire in Algonquin, Multiple Departments Respond: Early Wednesday morning, broken electrical lines fell across two yards, a house, and a car on the 800 block of Oceola Drive in Algonquin, setting a home ablaze. Firefighters from several departments responded after numerous 911 calls reported both a yard and a residence on fire. The situation required an upgraded response due to the live wires arcing over several properties. ComEd crews were called in to handle the hazardous power lines and ensure neighborhood safety. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 10)

December 9, 2025

  1. Gas Station Canopy Collapses After Snowfall in Cary, No Injuries Reported: A canopy at the Marathon gas station on East Main Street in Cary collapsed following heavy snowfall over the weekend. Local fire and police departments responded to the incident, which did not result in any injuries. The canopy had previously been closed due to structural concerns, and after the collapse, both fuel dispensing areas remain shut as demolition and insurance coordination are underway. The convenience store at the location continues operating during these repairs. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 9)

December 5, 2025

  1. Bus Driver Cited After School Bus Crash Near McHenry Leaves Child Injured: A school bus carrying students from McHenry School Districts 15 and 156 crashed into a utility pole Monday afternoon at Colby Point Road and South Justen Road in unincorporated McHenry. The collision resulted in live power lines coming down and left the students and driver temporarily trapped on the bus. Emergency crews responded shortly after 4:30 p.m., and one young child sustained minor injuries in the incident. The sheriff's office has issued a citation to the bus driver for this crash. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 5)

  2. Driver Flees Crash Site After Truck and Car Hauler Overturn Near Algonquin: A pickup truck hauling a trailer loaded with two vehicles overturned near Cary-Algonquin Road and Allen Road in unincorporated Algonquin during the early morning of November 27. Emergency responders from the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Fire Protection District and the McHenry County Sheriff's Office arrived shortly after 1:30 a.m. and discovered no one inside the truck. Authorities report the driver had left the scene on foot, while a passenger later returned as crews responded. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 5)

December 1, 2025

  1. Additional Snowfall Forecasted in Chicagoland Following Heavy Weekend Snowstorm: Chicagoland residents are preparing for more snowfall on Monday, just after a powerful snowstorm left nearly a foot of accumulation in parts of Lake and McHenry counties over the post-Thanksgiving weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory covering several counties in the area, warning that snow will move in during the afternoon and persist into the night. Commuters are advised to expect hazardous travel conditions during the evening rush hour due to slippery roads and reduced visibility. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 1)

  2. Child Injured in School Bus Crash Involving Downed Power Lines Near McHenry: A school bus accident occurred Monday afternoon near Colby Point Road and South Justen Road in unincorporated McHenry, Lake County. The crash caused the bus to strike a utility pole, bringing down power lines and leaving the driver and two student passengers temporarily trapped. Emergency crews from the Nunda Rural Fire Protection District responded and safely removed those involved. One young child sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 1)

  3. No Injuries After Cary Police Squad Car Collides With Tow Truck on Route 14: A Cary police officer and a tow truck driver were unharmed following a collision on Route 14 near East Main Street in Cary. The incident occurred when the officer, responding to support another traffic stop but not running lights or siren, entered the intersection and his squad car struck the tow truck. Both vehicles sustained minor damage and were driven from the scene. The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office investigated and issued no citations. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 1)

November 29, 2025

  1. Lake and McHenry Counties Brace for Continued Heavy Snowfall After Storm: Lake and McHenry counties have experienced significant snowfall, with totals reaching up to 7 inches in some communities by early Saturday evening, according to the National Weather Service. Areas like McHenry, Woodstock, Wadsworth, and Antioch reported from 5 to 7 inches, while O'Hare International Airport recorded 3 inches. Over 1,100 flights were canceled at O'Hare, and hazardous road conditions have been reported as snow is expected to continue into Sunday morning. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 29)

November 25, 2025

  1. Man Charged After Road Rage Shooting and Search in Cary: Christopher Bolton, 24, of Streamwood, faces felony charges after allegedly firing multiple shots during a road rage incident in Cary on March 23, 2024. The altercation, which occurred near Cary-Algonquin Road and Harper Avenue, resulted in a crash and led to an extensive police search. Bolton is charged with aggravated assault and reckless discharge of a firearm related to the event. The arrest followed an investigation by the Cary Police Department. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 25)

November 17, 2025

  1. Fire Crews Contain Marshland Blaze Near Cary, Preventing Residential Damage: Firefighters responded to a marshland fire near Cary on Saturday afternoon after reports of smoke in the area of West Rawson Bridge Road and Crystal Lake Road. Approximately four acres of brush and cattails burned, but firefighters quickly intervened to stop the flames from reaching nearby homes. The Cary Fire Protection District arrived around 3 p.m. and successfully contained the blaze before it could threaten residential properties. No injuries or property damage were reported. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 16)

  2. McHenry County to Appeal FEMA Denial of Disaster Relief After August Storms: McHenry County is collaborating with state and federal emergency officials to challenge FEMA's decision to deny disaster relief following severe storms in August. The storms, which struck between August 16 and 19, brought hail, heavy rain, and strong winds, resulting in widespread property damage, extended power outages, and disruptions to essential services, particularly in the Cary area. The appeal is focused on securing federal assistance for impacted communities in the county. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 1)

  3. Brush Fire Near McHenry Burns 15 Acres, Draws Large Multi-Agency Response: A wind-driven brush fire consumed roughly 15 acres on South Crystal Lake Road near McHenry on Sunday afternoon, prompting a response from over a dozen fire departments across Lake and McHenry counties. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find the blaze actively spreading behind a residence and barn, accelerated by strong west winds. The Mutual Aid Box Alarm System was activated to bolster resources needed for containment. The incident highlighted the challenges of coordinating wildfire responses in the area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 17)

  4. Barrington Hills Barn Destroyed in Multi-Agency Fire Response on West Dundee Road: A large multi-story barn on the 100 block of West Dundee Road in Barrington Hills was completely destroyed by fire on Saturday afternoon. The blaze drew firefighters from several departments, who arrived within minutes to find the structure already fully involved. The barn, confirmed unoccupied at the time, was declared a total loss. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and no injuries have been reported. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 17)

November 16, 2025

  1. Resident Injured in Johnsburg House Fire That Caused Widespread Damage: A house fire began at the back of a residence in the 4000 block of North Hillcrest Place in Johnsburg early Sunday, resulting in significant damage to the structure. Firefighters from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded just before 8 a.m. and managed to contain the blaze within 40 minutes. One resident sustained injuries, and all occupants safely exited the home. The incident left the residents displaced due to the extent of the fire damage. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 16)

October 29, 2025

  1. Cary resident receives 13-year sentence for drug and weapons offenses in McHenry: A 25-year-old Cary man was sentenced to 13 years in prison after being found with a converted AR-15 rifle, body armor, and significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and LSD in McHenry County. The arrest followed charges including armed violence, drug delivery, and illegal firearm and ammo, (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Sep 27)

  2. Mexican national alleges punches pregnant woman in Cary while being wanted for…: Erick Angeles-Ayala, 32, who is homeless, (inset) was arrested last Wednesday evening after allegedly punching a pregnant woman in the face near the Jewel-Osco in Cary and then running from officers. | Background Photo: Google Street View; Inset: Provided A Mexican national who allegedly punched a pregnant woman in the face while being wanted on federal charges for illegally being in the United States was captured by police in Cary. The Cary Police Department arrested Erick Angeles-Ayala, 32, who is homeless, around 8:10 p.m. last Wednesday at the Jewel-Osco, 696 West Northwest Highway in Cary. An arrest report said he was charged with three counts of felony resisting a peace officer causing injury, misdemeanor obstructing identification and two counts of misdemeanor domestic battery. A criminal complaint alleges Angeles-Ayala caused bodily harm to a family or household member by punching the woman in the face with a closed fist after grabbing her by the shirt. She suffered an internal lip laceration and a swollen cheekbone. Court documents said the attack came following a heated verbal argument and the victim was four months pregnant, which Angeles-Ayala knew about. The complaint said Angeles-Ayala ran away from responding officers who were trying to arrest him. Officers had to tackle and struggle with Angeles-Ayala on the ground to place him into custody. Three officers suffered abrasions to their knees and elbows during the arrest. The complaint said Angeles-Ayala provided the officers with a fake name before he was arrested. In addition to the charges, Angeles-Ayala also had two warrants out of McHenry County for failing to appear in court. Angeles-Ayala additionally had an active failure to appear warrant for a federal criminal case. Angeles-Ayala was processed and transported to the McHenry County Jail where he remains held as of Thursday. McHenry County Judge Tiffany Davis revoked his pre-trial release in his pending cases and granted a petition to detain him in his newest case. A police report said Angeles-Ayala was also arrested by the Cary Police Department in February 2024 after he was stopped near Route 14 and Three Oaks Road. At that time, Angeles-Ayala was charged with aggravated driving under the influence and issued traffic citations. The Cary Police Department then released Angeles-Ayala to ICE for a criminal immigration warrant, the report said. Court records show the active federal case against Angeles-Ayala was first filed in January 2024 for the charge of re-entry of deported aliens. A criminal complaint said DHS records show Angeles-Ayala is a citizen of Mexico and has no claim to United States citizenship or lawful residence. Angeles-Ayala, who was previously deported from the United States back to Mexico in September 2014, was sentenced to state prison in November 2019 for a drug conviction in McHenry County. He was then deported from the United States back to Mexico in February 2020. ICE officers encountered Angeles-Ayala again in the United States again in February 2023 while he was in custody of the McHenry County Jail in Woodstock, the complaint said. Angeles-Ayala was arrested and taken into federal custody in February 2024. Prosecutors sought to have him detained but a federal judge released him on conditions with a signature bond. Angeles-Ayala pleaded guilty to the charge of reentry by deported aliens in February and a sentencing hearing was scheduled. Prosecutors sought to revoke his release in April, leading to the federal warrant being issued. The U.S. Marshals Service has lodged a detainer with McHenry County Jail for Angeles-Ayala. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Sep 25)

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