Latest News

March 1, 2026

1. Walgreens to Lay Off Nearly 500 Corporate Employees in Illinois: Walgreens, headquartered in Deerfield and one of the country’s largest pharmacy retailers, plans to eliminate over 450 corporate positions in Illinois as part of a restructuring effort. The layoffs will affect employees at the company’s main offices in Deerfield, as well as locations in Chicago and Danville. Workers impacted by the changes have been given 60-day notice and will retain their positions and compensation for that period. Company representatives expect the job reductions to be permanent. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 1)

   Lake County Deerfield, IL +2 Chicago, IL Danville, IL

February 28, 2026

1. Identity Released in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Waukegan Woman in Winthrop Harbor: The Lake County Coroner has identified Shanna White, a 50-year-old mother and grandmother from Waukegan, as the victim in a fatal hit-and-run incident in Winthrop Harbor. Emergency responders were called to the 1400 block of Sheridan Road late Thursday night, where White was found with severe injuries. An autopsy confirmed she died from multiple blunt force injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities continue to investigate as her family seeks information. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 28)

   Lake County Winthrop Harbor, IL +3 Waukegan, IL Zion, IL Chicago, IL

2. Fox Lake Man Accused of Murder After Woman Found Dead at Elk Grove Hotel: A 54-year-old man from Fox Lake has been charged with first-degree murder following the death of a 50-year-old Fox Lake woman. The woman was discovered stabbed near a dumpster at the InTown Suites Extended Stay hotel on Landmeier Road in Elk Grove Village. Authorities responded to a call and identified the victim, launching an investigation with local and major case teams. The case is being handled in Cook County as police continue their inquiries. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 28)

   Lake County Elk Grove Village, IL +2 Chicago, IL

February 27, 2026

1. Huntley Police Recover Stolen Vehicle and Methamphetamine, Arrest Chicago Man: Huntley police arrested a 42-year-old Chicago resident on Wednesday afternoon after stopping a stolen vehicle on Route 47 near Huntley Crossings. During the traffic stop, officers found drug paraphernalia and over 275 grams of methamphetamine in the car. The driver, identified as Robert William Mitchell, was taken into custody and faces charges related to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Authorities highlighted the role of patrol efforts in the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 27)

   Lake County Huntley, IL +2 Chicago, IL Schaumburg, IL

February 23, 2026

1. Lake Zurich Pastor Permanently Removed Amid Ongoing Child Sex Abuse Investigation: A pastor at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Parish and school in Lake Zurich has been permanently removed from his position following a third investigation into allegations of child sexual abuse. The decision was communicated to the parish by Cardinal Blase Cupich, noting that accusations against Father David Ryan are unlikely to be resolved soon. Leadership at the parish has shifted to an interim administrator while the matter remains open. The replacement aims to provide stability for the congregation going forward. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 23)

   Lake County Lake Zurich, IL +1 Chicago, IL

February 19, 2026

1. Live Music and Comedy Events Highlight Weekend Activities in Greater Lafayette: The Delphi Opera House in Delphi celebrates its 10th anniversary season with performances by Livingston Taylor on February 21 and My Brother’s Keeper, a progressive bluegrass band, on February 28. In Lafayette, the Civic Theatre hosts The Improvised Bachelorette Show by local improv troupe One Size Fits All on February 20. The upcoming schedule also features the Warrior Kings performing Led Zeppelin classics in early March. These events offer a range of entertainment for local residents. (Source: Based in Lafayette on Feb 19)

   Greater Lafayette Lafayette, IN +6 Delphi, IN Monticello, IN Indianapolis City (balance), IN Chicago, IL Fort Wayne, IN Bloomington, IN

February 18, 2026

1. Chicago Area Residents Find Wildfire Dust on Cars After Overnight Rain: Residents in the Chicago area discovered their vehicles coated in a layer of dust on Wednesday morning after rain carried ash and debris from recent wildfires in Kansas and Oklahoma. Meteorologists from the National Weather Service explained that strong winds transported the dust northeastward, embedding it in rainfall that fell across northern Illinois. The phenomenon resulted in widespread observations of dusty cars throughout the region. This event highlights the far-reaching effects of wildfires beyond their immediate locations. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 18)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +1 Manhattan, IL

February 16, 2026

1. Man Charged After Shooting in Grayslake Leaves Victim Hospitalized: A man in his 30s was hospitalized after being shot twice at a Grayslake residence on January 30. Authorities allege that Elo Owolide, 28, of Evanston, fired at the victim following a dispute over personal belongings. The incident occurred at a home on the 500 block of Lincoln Avenue and drew a response from local police and fire personnel, who found the injured man inside. Owolide faces a Class X felony charge for aggravated battery by discharge of a firearm. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 16)

   Lake County Grayslake, IL +4 Evanston, IL Chicago, IL Libertyville, IL

2. Twin Lakes Man Dies After Medical Emergency Leads to Crash Near Richmond: Jose Angel Gonzalez, a 50-year-old resident of Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, died on February 10 following a crash near 374th Avenue and State Line Road in unincorporated Richmond, Illinois. Authorities believe Gonzalez suffered a medical event that caused his vehicle to leave the roadway and end up in a conservation area, though the car sustained only minimal damage. Emergency responders, including the McHenry County Sheriff's Office and Richmond Township Fire Protection District, arrived swiftly, but Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 16)

   Lake County Richmond, IL +5 Chicago, IL

February 15, 2026

1. Former Daycare Teacher Accused of Giving Laxatives to Young Children in St. Charles: A 23-year-old former Round Lake resident, Yizel J. Juarez of Sycamore, was arrested after authorities alleged she provided chewable laxatives to children aged two or younger while working at The Learning Experience daycare in St. Charles. Police became involved following multiple reports from concerned parents. The investigation verified that three young children were affected and confirmed the incidents occurred at the daycare. Juarez is facing several charges related to these allegations. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 15)

   Lake County St. Charles, IL +3 Sycamore, IL Chicago, IL

February 13, 2026

1. Security Staff at Waukegan Nightclub Accused of Assault During Event: An altercation occurred at Red Iguana Night Club in Waukegan during an event on February 1, where security personnel allegedly rendered a man unconscious and then carried him outside, leaving him injured on the concrete. The victim reported the incident to local police the same day, displaying visible physical injuries. Cellphone footage reportedly shows security carrying out the unconscious individual. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 13)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +1 Chicago, IL

February 11, 2026

1. Waukegan Resident Charged With Federal Forced Labor and Trafficking Offenses: A Waukegan resident, Fredy Hernandez, 46, originally from Honduras, is facing federal indictments for allegedly trafficking several individuals into the United States and forcing them into labor. The 12-count indictment outlines accusations of bringing and harboring undocumented immigrants as well as compelling them to work for his benefit. The charges were filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago, stemming from incidents in 2022 and 2023. Hernandez faces significant prison time if convicted on these charges. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 11)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +2 Chicago, IL Wadsworth, IL

February 9, 2026

1. Judge Denies Pre-Trial Release for Couple Accused in Death of 8-Year-Old Boy: A judge refused to grant pre-trial release to Dominique Servant and Joey L. Ruffin, who are charged with multiple counts of first-degree murder and child endangerment in Lake County, Illinois. Authorities allege that the couple subjected their children to prolonged abuse, including malnutrition and physical violence, while monitoring them with video surveillance. The abuse reportedly led to the death of an eight-year-old boy at the Cedar Villas Apartments in Round Lake Beach. Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures but were unable to revive the child. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 9)

   Lake County Round Lake Beach, IL +2 Libertyville, IL Chicago, IL

February 4, 2026

1. Lake Forest Firefighter to Serve as Hockey Referee at 2026 Winter Olympics: Sam Hiller, a firefighter and paramedic from Lake Forest, has been selected as an official hockey referee for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy. Hiller is among ten female officials from the United States chosen for this role. She has prior experience refereeing professional hockey games, including those played by the Chicago Wolves. The City of Lake Forest recognized her achievements and highlighted her ongoing contributions to both public safety and the sporting community. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 4)

   Lake County Lake Forest, IL +3 Chicago, IL Rosemont, IL Milan, IL

February 1, 2026

1. Suspect Sought in Grayslake Shooting Following Residential Altercation: Police in Grayslake are searching for a suspect after a shooting occurred Friday evening outside a home on Lincoln Avenue. The incident began as a dispute between two individuals and escalated when several gunshots were fired, injuring a 31-year-old man from Chicago in the hip and hand. The victim was hospitalized in stable condition, and no other injuries were reported. Authorities are continuing their investigation as the person of interest remains at large. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 1)

   Lake County Grayslake, IL +2 Libertyville, IL Chicago, IL

January 30, 2026

1. Waukegan Resident Receives Federal Sentence for Firearms Conspiracy Involving Sister: A Waukegan man has been sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison after conspiring with his sister to illegally purchase seven firearms, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Between 2020 and 2023, the man and his sister falsely represented who was buying the guns at area licensed dealers, with the intent to resell them unlawfully. The purchases were facilitated by making false statements and by using the sister's name during transactions. The man pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges in 2025. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 30)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +3 Rockford, IL Chicago, IL

January 29, 2026

1. Barrington Hills Data Center Proposal Dropped After Developer Withdrawal: Plans to build a $2 billion data center in Barrington Hills will not move forward after the developer withdrew from a scheduled meeting with the village's Plan Commission. The proposed project, led by Brennan Investment Group, was slated for an area south of Penny Road and west of Pond Gate Drive. Local residents had voiced strong opposition due to concerns about environmental impacts and potential disruption to the community. Village officials announced that no further discussions are anticipated. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 29)

   Lake County Barrington Hills, IL +1 Chicago, IL

January 28, 2026

1. Our Lady of Humility School in Beach Park to Close Permanently After School Year: Our Lady of Humility School in Beach Park will permanently close at the end of the current school year, the Archdiocese of Chicago announced. The decision is attributed to declining enrollment and ongoing financial challenges that made continued operation unsustainable. The school is one of several in the Chicago region affected by these closures, impacting students, families, and staff. Support efforts for those affected will be a priority as the school year concludes. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 28)

   Lake County Beach Park, IL +2 Chicago, IL

January 23, 2026

1. Waukegan Man Arrested by U.S. Marshals on Attempted Murder and Battery Charges: Durrell Robertson, a 40-year-old resident of Waukegan, was apprehended near his home by the U.S. Marshals Service and local authorities. He faces charges stemming from an alleged stabbing in Chicago that left a 34-year-old man seriously injured on January 1. Police report that Robertson was sought for attempted first-degree murder and multiple counts of aggravated battery. He was taken into custody without incident at his apartment in Waukegan. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 23)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +1 Chicago, IL

January 22, 2026

1. Extreme Cold and Wind Chills Prompt School Closures, Warming Centers in Chicagoland: A severe winter storm, forecasted to bring wind chills as low as -40 degrees, is expected to impact northeastern Illinois starting early Friday. State agencies have urged residents to prepare for hazardous cold, with school closures and the opening of warming centers across the Chicagoland area. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency has issued warnings as the extreme conditions may increase risks for frostbite, hypothermia, and disruptions to infrastructure. The warning covers much of Illinois, including Lake and McHenry counties. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 22)

   Lake County Chicago, IL

2. Local Chefs and Restaurants Named Semifinalists for 2026 James Beard Awards: The James Beard Foundation has announced its 2026 semifinalists, highlighting chefs and restaurant professionals from Palms, Santa Monica, Venice, and West Hollywood. These annual awards are recognized as significant honors in the national culinary scene, celebrating creativity and leadership in food and beverage. This stage precedes the selection of finalists, which will be named in late March, leading up to the awards ceremony in June in Chicago. Local nominees reflect the region's influence on contemporary American dining. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jan 22)

   Westside Beaches Los Angeles, CA +5 Santa Monica, CA Venice, CA Long Beach, CA Chicago, IL

January 21, 2026

1. Severe Arctic Cold Forecast for Chicagoland, Wind Chills May Drop Below -40 Degrees: Forecasters are alerting Chicago-area residents to an upcoming period of extremely cold weather, with wind chills possibly dropping below -40 degrees. The National Weather Service issued an extreme cold watch for northern Illinois counties, including Lake, McHenry, and Cook, effective from Thursday evening through Friday morning. Exposure to these temperatures could cause frostbite within minutes, prompting authorities to urge caution. The cold is likely to persist into Friday evening and Saturday morning. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 21)

   Lake County Chicago, IL

2. Federal Authorities Conduct Criminal Investigation Near Highland Park High School: Federal officials carried out a criminal investigation in Highland Park on Wednesday morning, with police activity occurring just blocks from Highland Park High School. City officials clarified that the operation is unrelated to immigration enforcement, addressing concerns stemming from recent national events. Local police were notified beforehand, but no further details about the nature of the investigation have been released. Authorities emphasized the distinction to alleviate community concerns about the federal presence. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 21)

   Lake County Highland Park, IL +1 Chicago, IL

January 19, 2026

1. Buffalo Grove Pastor and Others Placed on Leave Amid Child Sex Abuse Investigation: Father Denis Manuel Carneiro, an associate pastor at St. Mary Catholic Church in Buffalo Grove, has been placed on leave following allegations of child sexual abuse. The accusation, which dates back roughly sixty years and reportedly occurred in India, prompted the Archdiocese to suspend Carneiro and notify civil authorities. Carneiro has served at St. Mary Parish at various times since 2004. The investigation is ongoing as outreach to the reporting party continues. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 19)

   Lake County Buffalo Grove, IL +4 Chicago, IL Inverness, IL

2. McHenry Nurse Recognized as Advocate Health Care's Nurse Leader of the Year: Ashley Vilona, a resident of McHenry and nurse manager at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, has been named Advocate Health Care’s 2025 Nurse Leader of the Year. Vilona, along with another nurse from Oak Forest, was honored as a special guest at Soldier Field during a Chicago Bears game, where they participated in the Bear Down Flag Ceremony. Their recognition highlights their contributions to nursing excellence in the region. The ceremony took place during the pregame introductions at Soldier Field. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 19)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +5 Mchenry, IL Chicago, IL

January 18, 2026

1. Clipper Weather System to Bring Snow and Arctic Temperatures to Northeast Illinois: Northeast Illinois is forecast to experience new snowfall Sunday afternoon as a clipper weather system moves through the region, followed by a significant drop in temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for multiple counties, warning of light snow accumulation and potentially difficult travel. Arctic air is expected to arrive late Sunday, with wind chills projected to fall between 20 and 25 degrees below zero. These cold conditions will persist through Tuesday morning. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 18)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +1 Rockford, IL

January 16, 2026

1. Deerfield Man Arrested After Child Exploitation Investigation in Lake County: A 49-year-old Deerfield resident was arrested following a search of his home after authorities received a tip regarding possession of child sexual abuse material. The investigation, led by Lake County Sheriff's detectives, was initiated with help from a social media provider's report and involved multiple law enforcement agencies. Authorities allege the suspect had dozens of explicit images and videos involving children and participated in online discussions referencing the abuse. Criminal charges are now pending as the case proceeds. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 16)

   Lake County Deerfield, IL +1 Chicago, IL

January 15, 2026

1. Accumulating Snow and High Winds Expected to Affect Chicagoland Morning Traffic: The National Weather Service has issued a warning for accumulating snow and strong winds starting Thursday evening across the Chicagoland area, including Lake and McHenry counties. Forecasters expect a brief but intense snowfall Thursday night followed by another period of snow lasting into Friday morning, possibly leading to hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility. Snowfall totals could reach one to two inches, potentially making the morning commute on Friday more difficult for drivers. Authorities urge caution while traveling during this period. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 15)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +2 Mchenry, IL

January 14, 2026

1. Wind-Driven Snowfall Causes Multiple Crashes in Lake and McHenry Counties: Hazardous road conditions resulted from high winds and snow across Lake and McHenry counties during a recent Wednesday morning commute. Emergency responders were called to numerous vehicle accidents, including several involving school buses. The National Weather Service noted a cold front brought rapidly falling temperatures, contributing to slick roads and low visibility. Drivers experienced significant delays as emergency crews managed the aftermath of these incidents. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 14)

   Lake County Wadsworth, IL +8 Libertyville, IL Mundelein, IL Wauconda, IL Huntley, IL Marengo, IL Chicago, IL

2. Former Grayslake Resident Identified After Death in Chicago West Side Alley: Authorities have identified a 39-year-old former Grayslake resident, Michael Richard Evans, found deceased in an alley near the 3500 block of West Adams Street in Chicago’s East Garfield Park. Police and fire officials responded early Friday to reports of a man down, and paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. The Cook County Medical Examiner confirmed the identity and noted there was initially no identification on the individual. Investigators continue to look into the circumstances of his death. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 14)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +2 Grayslake, IL

January 13, 2026

1. High-Speed Chase Follows Car Theft and Police Vehicle Collision in Lake County: A suspect accused of breaking into vehicles in North Chicago reportedly stole a car and collided with a police squad before leading authorities on a high-speed chase through Lake County Sunday night. The pursuit began on Sargo Court and continued onto Interstate 94, reaching speeds above 115 mph as it passed through multiple areas and ultimately entered Chicago. The incident involved several law enforcement agencies coordinating to address the situation. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the event. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 13)

   Lake County North Chicago, IL +2 Chicago, IL Lincolnshire, IL

January 12, 2026

1. Lawsuit Filed After Woman Injured in Fall from Superman Ride at Six Flags Gurnee: A woman has filed a lawsuit in Lake County, alleging that she sustained injuries requiring surgery after falling from the Superman: Ultimate Flight ride at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee on July 12, 2024. The complaint states that a mechanical failure prevented the ride from properly reaching its off-loading area, resulting in the woman's fall and subsequent injuries. The suit seeks compensation for medical expenses, therapy, and other related damages. Legal proceedings are ongoing in Lake County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 12)

   Lake County Gurnee, IL +1 Chicago, IL

January 11, 2026

1. Death of Grayslake Man Found in Chicago Alley Prompts Police Investigation: Authorities are investigating the death of a man from Grayslake who was discovered unresponsive in an alley on Chicago’s West Side early Friday morning. Emergency responders arrived at the 3500 block of West Adams Street in East Garfield Park and pronounced the man dead at the scene. Police say he was in his late 30s and had no identification on him. The Cook County Medical Examiner plans an autopsy while detectives continue their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 11)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +1 Grayslake, IL

January 8, 2026

1. Santa Monica Pier's Historic Building to House Route 66-Inspired Roadhouse: A portion of the 108-year-old Billiard & Bowling Building on the Santa Monica Pier will be renovated into The California Roadhouse, a new dining and entertainment venue inspired by Route 66. Santa Monica restaurateur Sean Ahaus, co-owner of Vito Restaurant, is spearheading the project, which aims to capture the spirit of classic California road trips. The opening is planned for March 2026, aligning with the Route 66 centennial celebrations in April. The venue will offer American fare, live entertainment, and ocean views. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jan 8)

   Westside Beaches Santa Monica, CA +2 Chicago, IL Jacksonville, FL

January 7, 2026

1. Mundelein Man Dies After Attempting to Exit Moving Metra Train in Libertyville: A 30-year-old Mundelein man died after apparently jumping from a moving Metra train Friday evening in Libertyville. Police and emergency crews responded near Winchester Road and Ellis Avenue after the man was found unresponsive along the Milwaukee District North line tracks. Authorities have identified the deceased as Allen Chiquini, with investigators treating the incident as an accidental death. The Metra train involved was operating on its outbound route from Chicago at the time. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 7)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +2 Mundelein, IL Chicago, IL

January 6, 2026

1. Mundelein Man Identified After Fatal Train Accident in Libertyville: Authorities in Libertyville discovered the body of a 30-year-old man from Mundelein on the Milwaukee District North train line Friday evening. Emergency units from Libertyville and Metra responded to the scene near Ellis Avenue and Winchester Road after a report of an unresponsive individual on the tracks. The Lake County Coroner's Office confirmed the victim's identity as Allen Chiquini. Chiquini's family is now mourning his loss following confirmation he was struck by a train. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 6)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +3 Mundelein, IL Chicago, IL

January 5, 2026

1. Mundelein Resident Identified Following Fatal Train Incident in Libertyville: Authorities have identified a 30-year-old man from Mundelein who died after being struck by a train in Libertyville on Friday evening. Emergency crews responded around 5:30 p.m. to the area near Winchester Road and Ellis Avenue after a body was discovered on the Metra Milwaukee District North line tracks by a train crew. The Lake County Coroner confirmed the identity of the victim as Allen Chiquini. The incident is under investigation by local police and Metra officials. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 5)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +3 Mundelein, IL Chicago, IL

January 3, 2026

1. Crystal Lake Family Welcomes First Baby of 2026 at Advocate Sherman Hospital: A Crystal Lake resident delivered the first baby of 2026 at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin, marking a notable event for both the hospital staff and the community. The newborn, Kolbie Noelle Partenheimer, arrived at 12:55 a.m., just minutes after another child born at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn. The parents, Kelly Davis and Kyle Partenheimer, joined many families celebrating new arrivals as the year began. The event reflects the hospital’s role in welcoming thousands of newborns annually. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 3)

   Lake County Elgin, IL +5 Chicago, IL Barrington, IL Libertyville, IL

January 2, 2026

1. Man Found Deceased on Train Tracks Causes Delays on Metra’s Libertyville Route: A man was discovered dead on the Milwaukee District North line train tracks in Libertyville on Friday evening, which resulted in significant delays for Metra commuters. Emergency responders arrived near Winchester Road and Ellis Avenue after receiving a call from the train crew, who noticed the body but could not confirm if the train had made contact. Authorities later determined the train had not struck the individual. The incident prompted a thorough investigation by local and transit police. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 2)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +2 Chicago, IL

December 30, 2025

1. Light Snow and Dropping Wind Chills Forecast for Chicago Area on New Year’s Eve: Forecasters predict light snow will move into the Chicago area on New Year’s Eve, potentially causing slick roads, especially during the afternoon hours. Temperatures are expected to fall from the 20s into the teens by evening, with wind chills near zero around midnight. The National Weather Service highlights that Lake, McHenry, and neighboring counties in northern Illinois will experience some of the coldest conditions. Residents are encouraged to prepare for slippery travel and falling temperatures throughout the evening. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 30)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +3 Mchenry, IL Winnebago, IL

December 28, 2025

1. Two Arrested After Stolen U-Haul Van Incident and Foot Chase in Deerfield: Police in Deerfield arrested two men from Bellwood after responding to a report of a stolen U-Haul van on November 21. The vehicle, a white Ford Transit with an Arizona license plate, was located by officers at a McDonald’s on Waukegan Road. One suspect attempted to evade capture by fleeing on foot but was quickly apprehended by officers. Both individuals now face charges related to operating the stolen rental van. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 28)

   Lake County Deerfield, IL +2 Bellwood, IL Chicago, IL

2. Lake County Cancer Survivors Recognized at Chicago Bulls United Center Event: Two breast cancer survivors from Lake County, including a resident of Gurnee, were honored at the Chicago Bulls' United Center on December 17. They participated in the Bulls' exclusive 'Court of Dreams' experience, which acknowledged Advocate Health Care cancer patients and survivors. The event highlighted the Bulls guard Tre Jones' ongoing advocacy for breast cancer awareness, inspired by his own family’s experience with the disease. The recognition aimed to celebrate survivors and raise awareness in the local community. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 28)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +4 Gurnee, IL Barrington, IL Libertyville, IL

December 27, 2025

1. National Weather Service Issues Warning for Severe Storms in Chicagoland Region: The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for the Chicagoland area, warning of a powerful storm system expected to impact the region from Sunday into Monday. Residents could experience thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and snow showers, particularly near and north of Interstate 80. The outlook covers multiple counties, including Lake, McHenry, Cook, Kane, and others. Localized flooding and challenging travel conditions may result from the approaching weather event. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 27)

   Lake County Chicago, IL

December 26, 2025

1. Milwaukee District North Metra Trains Delayed by Vehicle on Tracks in Fox Lake: Metra trains on the Milwaukee District North line faced significant disruptions Friday morning after a vehicle became stuck on the tracks near the Ingleside station in Fox Lake. Service was halted for both inbound and outbound trains beginning around 6:20 a.m., causing widespread delays with no specific timeline for resumption. Police responded promptly, and no injuries were reported, though commuters were advised to seek alternate train routes. The incident led to excessively delayed travel for morning passengers. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 26)

   Lake County Fox Lake, IL +2 Chicago, IL

December 24, 2025

1. Lake Barrington Firm to Pay $421,000 Over Defense Part Drawings Cybersecurity Case: Swiss Automation Inc., a precision machining firm in Lake Barrington, Illinois, has agreed to pay $421,234 to settle a federal whistleblower lawsuit. The case alleged the company failed to implement proper cybersecurity measures for part drawings it supplied to Department of Defense contractors. The settlement addresses claims that the lack of protection led to violations of the False Claims Act. The firm manufactures alloy and metal components for both commercial and government sectors. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 24)

   Lake County Lake Barrington, IL +1 Chicago, IL

December 22, 2025

1. Crystal Lake Cancer Survivor Honored During Chicago Bears Game Ceremony: Kendall Albright of Crystal Lake was recognized as a special guest at the Chicago Bears’ recent game against the Green Bay Packers. After being diagnosed with breast cancer just two weeks after her wedding, Albright underwent treatment at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington and is now cancer-free. She participated in the Bear Down Flag Ceremony at Soldier Field, where her husband joined her on the field. The honor celebrated both her personal resilience and her recovery journey. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 22)

   Lake County Crystal Lake, IL +3 Barrington, IL Chicago, IL

December 19, 2025

1. Lafayette Brewing Co. Prepares to Close After 32 Years of Hosting Live Music: Lafayette Brewing Co., a longstanding venue in downtown Lafayette, is set to close its doors after 32 years in operation. For decades, the brewery has been a hub for live music, attracting artists like Sarah Borges, The Sadies, and Jonathan Richman, as well as local performers. Owners Greg and Nancy Emig recently announced the closure, prompting regulars and musicians to reminisce about memorable shows and gatherings held at the iconic spot. The final event and last call are scheduled for Saturday, December 20. (Source: Based in Lafayette on Dec 19)

   Greater Lafayette Lafayette, IN +5 Indianapolis City (balance), IN Chicago, IL Ohio, IL

2. Antioch Store Sells $50,000 Powerball Ticket as Jackpot Reaches $1.5 Billion: A $50,000 winning Powerball ticket was recently sold at Antioch Food and Liquor on North Avenue in Antioch, according to Illinois Lottery officials. The sale comes as the Powerball jackpot climbs to an estimated $1.5 billion for the upcoming Saturday drawing, making it one of the largest in U.S. history. Several other Illinois players also secured substantial prizes during the latest drawing. The jackpot increase has generated heightened anticipation among local lottery participants. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 19)

   Lake County Antioch, IL +4 Aurora, IL Chicago, IL

December 18, 2025

1. Chef Masayori Adachi Appointed Executive Chef at Hidden Fish in Skaneateles: Hidden Fish, a well-known sushi restaurant in Skaneateles, has announced the appointment of Chef Masayori "Masa" Adachi as its new executive chef. Chef Adachi brings extensive experience from his training in Tokyo and his leadership roles in top restaurants in Chicago and Palo Alto. He holds a prestigious Fugu License and is recognized for his expertise in Japanese cuisine. His arrival marks a new chapter for the restaurant in the Finger Lakes region. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 18)

   Finger Lakes Skaneateles, NY +5 East Palo Alto, CA Chicago, IL Lake Forest, IL

December 15, 2025

1. Ex-Gurnee Resident Receives $13 Million Settlement After Murder Conviction Overturned: Herman Williams, a former Gurnee resident and decorated U.S. Navy veteran, has secured a $13 million settlement following his exoneration in the 1993 murder of his ex-wife. Williams was initially convicted in Lake County Circuit Court and spent nearly 29 years in prison before his conviction was vacated in September 2022. He was awarded a certificate of innocence in June 2024. This settlement marks the conclusion of a lengthy legal battle that began three decades ago. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 15)

   Lake County Gurnee, IL +4 Waukegan, IL Chicago, IL