Latest News

May 28, 2026

1. Funeral Services Held for Waukegan Mother Killed in I-94 Crash Near Gurnee: Funeral services are taking place for Maria Conchita Perez, a 35-year-old mother from Waukegan who died in a collision involving a car and a semi-truck on westbound Interstate 94, between Route 120 and O'Plaine Road near Gurnee. Authorities responded to the crash early Saturday morning, with fire departments from Gurnee and Libertyville, as well as Illinois State Police, arriving at the scene. The crash investigation is ongoing. Perez is remembered by family for her lasting positive influence. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on May 28)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +4 Gurnee, IL Libertyville, IL Chicago, IL Vernon Hills, IL

May 18, 2026

1. Family Retains Legal Counsel After Police Fatally Shoot Woman in Mundelein: A Mundelein family has hired a Chicago-based law firm to represent them following a fatal police shooting of a 37-year-old woman on May 11. According to reports, the woman was allegedly suicidal and armed with two large knives when officers responded to a call at a home on Ashbrook Drive. The law firm confirmed representation of the woman’s estate but did not specify whether a lawsuit is planned. The family has requested privacy as the investigation continues. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on May 18)

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

May 9, 2026

1. World's Largest Teddy Bear, Xonita, Visits Waukegan Municipal Beach: Waukegan is hosting Xonita, recognized as the largest teddy bear globally by Guinness World Records, at its municipal beach this weekend. The 63-foot-long, 8,000-pound teddy bear will be available for public viewing at 201 East Sea Horse Drive during scheduled hours on both Saturday and Sunday. Xonita's visit was organized in collaboration with the City of Waukegan, the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago, and local partners. Free parking and food trucks are provided during the event. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on May 9)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +3 Chicago, IL Round Lake Beach, IL

May 8, 2026

1. Schaumburg Man Charged in Death of Woman After Prolonged Assault, Authorities Say: Katherine Torbick, a 43-year-old Schaumburg resident and employee of a spa in Algonquin, was found dead from homicide during a police well-being check in Schaumburg. Authorities reported that she endured over seven hours of torture before being strangled, and an earlier similar attack had already led to a warrant for suspect Kevin D. Motykie, 56, also of Schaumburg. Additional charges, including criminal sexual assault, have been filed. Motykie remains in custody pending trial following a court hearing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on May 8)

   Lake County Schaumburg, IL +3 Algonquin, IL Barrington, IL Chicago, IL

May 3, 2026

1. Six Flags Great America Sets Chaperone Policy for Guests Under 16 in Gurnee: Six Flags Great America in Gurnee has introduced a new rule requiring all visitors aged 15 and younger to be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone who is at least 21. The policy, which also applies to Hurricane Harbor Chicago, mandates that chaperones stay with youth guests for the entire visit. Entry requires a government-issued photo ID for chaperones, and each adult may accompany up to 10 minors. Under this policy, unaccompanied children may be immediately removed from the park. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on May 3)

   Lake County Gurnee, IL +1 Chicago, IL

May 2, 2026

1. Chicago Man Charged With Stalking, Surveillance of Lake Forest Resident: A Chicago resident, Joshua E. Carrasco, 45, faces several charges after authorities allege he stalked a Lake Forest homeowner, attempted to break in, and secretly placed a tracking device on the victim’s car and a hidden camera on the property. Prosecutors stated that Carrasco did not have any connection to the victim and that his actions caused significant emotional distress. The case involves covert surveillance over several incidents in March. Legal proceedings are ongoing as authorities investigate further. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on May 2)

   Lake County Lake Forest, IL +3 Chicago, IL Morton Grove, IL Highland Park, IL

April 27, 2026

1. Identity Released of Army Veteran Found Deceased After Lake in the Hills House Fire: Authorities have identified Jack D. Murdock Sr., a 76-year-old U.S. Army veteran, as the individual found dead in his Lake in the Hills home on April 20 following a house fire. Emergency responders were called to the 1000 block of Brittany Bend after a family member discovered Murdock unresponsive inside the residence, where significant interior fire damage was noted. Fire personnel found no active flames upon arrival, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 27)

   Lake County Lake In The Hills, IL +2 Huntley, IL Chicago, IL

April 26, 2026

1. Man Convicted in 2021 Marengo Gas Station Armed Robbery and Assault: Walter R. Moran, 32, from Cicero, was convicted by a McHenry County jury for his involvement in the 2021 armed robbery, beating, and shooting at a Circle K gas station in Marengo. Authorities said Moran was found guilty of charges including Armed Robbery, Armed Violence, and Aggravated Battery after prosecutors established a detailed account of the early-morning crime using witness testimony and surveillance footage. Moran was the final participant to face conviction in this violent incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 26)

   Lake County Marengo, IL +6 Cicero, IL Chicago, IL Rockford, IL Wheaton, IL Harvard, IL Aurora, IL

April 25, 2026

1. Vista East Medical Center Employees Face Second Payroll Delay in Waukegan: Employees at Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan experienced a payroll delay for the second time in less than a month. Hospital leaders attributed the issue to a processing delay with their payroll funding system, affecting distribution of wages for work performed between April 5 and April 17. Some staff have begun receiving funds depending on their bank's processing times, but others are still waiting. The situation has raised concerns among staff members at the facility. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 25)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +2 Oak Park, IL Chicago, IL

April 24, 2026

1. Zion Resident Receives 67-Year Sentence for Fatal Shooting of Beach Park Man: A 28-year-old man from Zion has been sentenced to 67 years in prison for the 2022 killing of a Beach Park resident. The victim, a 42-year-old man, was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle on Chestnut Street in Waukegan on October 3, 2022. The sentencing follows a jury's guilty verdict for first-degree murder reached in December 2025. Authorities hope this lengthy prison term provides some sense of closure to the victim's loved ones. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 24)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +6 Zion, IL Chicago, IL

April 17, 2026

1. Illinois Senate Approves Statewide Regulations on Electric Bikes and Scooters: The Illinois Senate has unanimously approved legislation to impose new statewide restrictions on electric bikes and scooters. The measure aims to address safety concerns associated with increasingly powerful and fast electric vehicles, proposing to regulate certain devices similarly to cars and introducing speed and age limits. The bill intends to standardize rules across Illinois in response to recent incidents involving risky use by minors. The proposal now advances for further consideration. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 17)

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

April 13, 2026

1. Buffalo Sabres Secure Atlantic Division Title With Win Over Chicago Blackhawks: The Buffalo Sabres secured the Atlantic Division title after defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 5-1 at the United Center. This win marks their first division crown since 2010 and grants Buffalo home-ice advantage for the first two playoff rounds. The Sabres achieved 50 wins and 108 points, capping a dramatic season turnaround highlighted by a lengthy winning streak. Buffalo will open the Stanley Cup playoffs at home, facing either Boston or Ottawa as their first opponent. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 13)

   Finger Lakes Buffalo, NY +4 Chicago, IL Boston, MA Dallas, TX

2. Crystal Lake Crash Victim Sues Cary Police and Suspect Following Pursuit Incident: A person injured in a four-vehicle collision in Crystal Lake has filed a lawsuit against both the Cary Police Department and the alleged fleeing driver involved. The crash occurred on July 8, 2025, at the intersection of Route 31 and Three Oaks Road after a police pursuit ended with the suspect running a red light. The lawsuit, submitted by a Chicago law firm, names the Village of Cary and the driver from Elgin as defendants. The outcome of the legal proceedings remains pending. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 13)

   Lake County Crystal Lake, IL +5 Cary, IL Hanover Park, IL Mchenry, IL West Dundee, IL Chicago, IL

April 8, 2026

1. Barrington High Graduate Dies After Assault in Chicago, Police Investigate Homicide: Xander Kazanowski, a 25-year-old Chicago resident and Barrington High School graduate, was found with critical injuries on West Belmont Avenue in Chicago on March 24. Authorities report he suffered blunt head trauma from an assault and died at Illinois Masonic Medical Center four days later. His death was ruled a homicide by the Cook County Medical Examiner. Chicago police are actively searching for those responsible in the ongoing investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 8)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +2 Barrington, IL

April 4, 2026

1. Crystal Lake Resident Arrested After Attempted Sexual Assault in Chicago Garage: A 45-year-old man from Crystal Lake was arrested after allegedly attempting to sexually assault a woman in the Grant Park North Garage in downtown Chicago. The incident reportedly took place in the morning and drew the intervention of bystanders, who assisted the victim. The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended by Chicago police about an hour later. Authorities charged the man following an investigation tied to the attacks near North Michigan Avenue. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 4)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +1

April 2, 2026

1. Northern Illinois Faces Severe Weather Risk With Possible Tornadoes and High Winds: The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for much of northern Illinois, including Lake and McHenry counties, due to a threat of severe thunderstorms on Thursday. Strong winds reaching up to 70 mph, hail, and possible tornadoes are forecasted to impact the area from afternoon into the evening. Meteorologists caution that these conditions could lead to localized damage and disruptions. Residents are advised to stay alert as storms are expected throughout the day. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 2)

   Lake County Chicago, IL

2. Chauncie Band Grows From West Lafayette Roots to Final Four Events: After more than three years performing at basement shows and evolving through several name changes, the band Chauncie has become a prominent act in the Purdue University live music scene. Originating in West Lafayette, the group is now gaining wider attention as it prepares to take part in festivities surrounding the college basketball Final Four. Their journey reflects steady growth and increasing recognition in local and regional music circles. (Source: Based in Lafayette on Apr 2)

   Greater Lafayette Lafayette, IN +3 Indianapolis City (balance), IN Franklin, IN Chicago, IL

March 31, 2026

1. Buffalo Grove Resident Indicted on Federal Fraud Charges Totaling $3.5 Million: A 40-year-old woman from Buffalo Grove has been federally indicted for allegedly defrauding at least six individuals of $3.5 million. Authorities say she misrepresented the intended use of the funds, claiming they were for immigration assistance, Ukraine-related projects, and other needs. Federal prosecutors allege much of the money went toward her personal expenses and not the stated purposes. The indictment was handed down in U.S. District Court in Chicago. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 31)

   Lake County Buffalo Grove, IL +1 Chicago, IL

March 27, 2026

1. Payroll Delay at Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan Raises Employee Concerns: Several employees at Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan did not receive their paychecks on schedule due to a reported payroll processing error. Hospital administration attributed the delay to technical issues with time card processing but acknowledged concerns about ongoing payroll reliability. The situation has drawn notice because another hospital in the Chicago area recently faced a similar problem, resulting in a temporary closure. Employees continue to seek clarity about the issue and its resolution. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 27)

   Lake County Waukegan, IL +2 Oak Park, IL Chicago, IL

March 25, 2026

1. Candlelight Vigil Planned in Mundelein for Boy Killed in House Fire: A candlelight vigil will be held Wednesday evening in Mundelein to honor Christopher Alfaro-Rodriguez, a 4-year-old boy who died during a house fire on Dalton Avenue. Emergency crews responded to the blaze early Monday, where the home was extensively damaged and the child was found deceased in the basement. According to the Lake County Coroner, his death was caused by smoke inhalation. The community continues to grieve as authorities investigate the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 25)

   Lake County Mundelein, IL +18 Libertyville, IL Antioch, IL Barrington, IL Deerfield, IL Fox Lake, IL Gurnee, IL Grayslake, IL Lake Forest, IL Lake Zurich, IL Lincolnshire, IL Lake Villa, IL North Chicago, IL Round Lake, IL Wauconda, IL Waukegan, IL Chicago, IL

2. Severe Storms Expected to Impact Northern Illinois With Hail and High Winds: The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for Thursday afternoon and evening in northern Illinois, warning of possible severe thunderstorms. Areas including Lake, McHenry, Will, Cook, and several neighboring counties could see damaging hail, strong winds, and the potential for a few tornadoes. Additionally, dry and gusty conditions may elevate the risk of grass and brush fires. Residents are encouraged to closely monitor weather updates and exercise caution. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 25)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +2 Streator, IL

March 24, 2026

1. Antioch Man Released After Firing Shotgun to Deter Fishermen Near Private Pond: A 76-year-old board member of a local children's art center in Lake County was released from jail after admitting to firing a shotgun to frighten fishermen on his private property near Antioch. The incident took place on North Lake Avenue, where fishermen accessed the pond through a public channel, leading to a dispute. Both parties contacted the Lake County Sheriff's Office, and deputies responded after hearing a gunshot during their call. No injuries were reported as the confrontation was resolved by law enforcement. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 24)

   Lake County Antioch, IL +2 Chicago, IL

March 22, 2026

1. Authorities Alert Chicagoland Residents to Fake Parking and Toll Violation Text Scam: Officials in the Chicago area have issued a warning about fraudulent text messages claiming to be hearing notices for parking or toll violations. The scam, which falsely references the Illinois Circuit Court, demands payment through a QR code and threatens legal consequences. Authorities stress that Illinois courts do not use such methods to collect fines or issue notices. Residents are urged not to respond, scan links, or give out personal information in these messages. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 22)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +2 Lakewood, IL

March 20, 2026

1. Death of Harvard Woman in Chicago Apartment Under Investigation by Police: A 27-year-old woman from Harvard in McHenry County was found unresponsive in a Chicago residence on the evening of March 13, leading to her being pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders arrived at the building on the 3400 block of West Lawrence Avenue after receiving a report about an unresponsive individual. Authorities identified the woman as Colette Rosales and confirmed a police investigation is underway. Further details regarding the circumstances of her death have not been released. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 20)

   Lake County Chicago, IL +1 Harvard, IL

March 19, 2026

1. Driver Faces Charges After Striking Squad Car, Leading Pursuit in Lake County: Authorities have charged a 73-year-old Woodridge man following an incident where he struck a police vehicle and led officers on a prolonged chase. The pursuit began in Bensenville after police attempted to stop the man's vehicle for expired registration. The chase covered several counties and ended on Interstate 94 near Libertyville, with the suspect taken into custody. No major injuries were reported as a result of the pursuit. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 19)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +7 Woodridge, IL Bensenville, IL Deerfield, IL Riverwoods, IL Bannockburn, IL Chicago, IL

2. New Chef Revitalizes Menu at Cove Restaurant in Canandaigua: The Cove Restaurant at Hotel Canandaigua has introduced a refreshed menu under the direction of new chef Marcus Ledford. Ledford, who brings experience from both Chicago and the Finger Lakes, has created dishes that focus on Italian-inspired flavors, fresh seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. The changes, including a house meatball recipe, have drawn positive attention from guests and increased demand. The restaurant has seen noticeable impacts from these recent updates. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 19)

   Finger Lakes Canandaigua, NY +1 Chicago, IL

March 18, 2026

1. Suspect Arrested After Slow-Speed Pursuit on I-94 in Lake County: A suspect was apprehended following an unusually slow-paced police pursuit that spanned multiple counties and ended on Interstate 94 near Libertyville on Wednesday afternoon. The pursuit began after a vehicle struck a Bensenville Police squad car and failed to comply with a traffic stop request. Officers tracked the beige Lexus sedan for nearly an hour before successfully bringing the incident to a close. No serious injuries were reported during the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 18)

   Lake County Libertyville, IL +11 Bensenville, IL Glenview, IL Northbrook, IL Deerfield, IL Riverwoods, IL Bannockburn, IL Chicago, IL

March 16, 2026

1. McHenry Towne Center Sold to Southeast-Based Buyer for Nearly $14 Million: McHenry Towne Center, an eight-unit shopping complex anchored by Aldi and situated on Route 31 near Blake Boulevard in McHenry, has been sold for approximately $13.74 million. The property had previously been owned by a private family with international ties. Marcus & Millichap, serving as broker, announced the sale and cited strong interest due to the center's tenants and grocery anchor. The buyer is based in the southeastern United States and completed the purchase through a 1031 exchange. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 16)

   Lake County Mchenry, IL +1 Chicago, IL

March 7, 2026

1. Aviation Community in Deerfield Remembers Pilot Lost in Fatal Plane Crash: The aviation community is mourning Chester Wojnicki, a 75-year-old Mount Prospect resident and former president of the American Polish Aero Club Chicago, who died when his plane crashed into a townhouse and yard in unincorporated Deerfield. The incident occurred Wednesday evening on the 800 block of Swallow Street. Wojnicki was also recognized for his volunteer work with the Illinois Wing Civil Air Patrol. Friends recall him for his generosity and mechanical skills. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 7)

   Lake County Deerfield, IL +6 Chicago, IL Wheeling, IL Madison, IL Lincolnshire, IL Riverwoods, IL

March 5, 2026

1. Aviation Club President Dies in Deerfield Plane Crash Into Townhome and Yard: Chester Wojnicki, president of the American Polish Aero Club Chicago, was identified as the pilot who died after his plane crashed into a townhome and backyard on Swallow Street in unincorporated Deerfield on Wednesday night. Emergency responders from several local departments arrived following multiple 911 calls reporting the incident. An autopsy revealed that Wojnicki, age 75 and from Mount Prospect, died from blunt force injuries. The crash caused significant damage to the property but no other casualties were reported. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 5)

   Lake County Deerfield, IL +5 Wheeling, IL Chicago, IL Madison, IL

March 4, 2026

1. Fox Lake Man Charged With Murder After Woman Found Dead at Elk Grove Village Hotel: Arturo F. Taylor, 54, of Fox Lake has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Colleen Bagley, 50, also of Fox Lake. Bagley's body was discovered outside near a dumpster at the InTown Suites Extended Stay in Elk Grove Village on February 25. Authorities allege Taylor fatally stabbed Bagley with two knives, transported her body, and left it at the hotel. Elk Grove Village police and the fire department responded after reports of an unresponsive person. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 4)

   Lake County Elk Grove Village, IL +3 Schaumburg, IL Chicago, IL

March 3, 2026

1. Arrest Made in Buffalo Grove Scam Targeting Elderly Resident for Nearly $60,000: A Los Angeles man was arrested after authorities linked him to a criminal operation that defrauded an elderly Buffalo Grove resident of approximately $60,000. The scam involved a fake computer alert on February 3, which led the victim to believe his computer and bank accounts were compromised. Using remote access, the perpetrator convinced him to wire tens of thousands of dollars. The investigation led to the suspect’s arrest after he attempted to collect cash from the victim. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 3)

   Lake County Buffalo Grove, IL +4 Detroit, IL Chicago, IL Northbrook, IL

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