Latest News
March 1, 2026
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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)
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Worker Hospitalized After Serious Hand Injury at Crystal Lake Manufacturing Plant: A worker sustained a significant hand injury at Serv-All Die and Tool Company on Erick Street in Crystal Lake on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency responders treated the individual at the scene and transported the person to Northwestern Medicine Hospital in McHenry for further care. Due to the severity of the injury, a medical helicopter was requested to transfer the patient to a Level 1 trauma center. The circumstances leading to the accident have not yet been determined. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 1)
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Authorities Investigate Human Skeletal Remains Found in Barrington Forest Preserve: Police and the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office are investigating after a visitor discovered human skeletal remains in a wooded section of Baker's Lake Nature Preserve, located on East Dundee Road in Barrington. Officials responded to the scene on February 14, confirming the remains and initiating forensic analysis. The medical examiner is working to determine the individual's identity, cause of death, and manner of death. The investigation remains ongoing at this time. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 1)
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Two Residents Escape Early Morning House Fire in Unincorporated Round Lake: Emergency crews responded to a basement fire in a two-story home on North Harrison Avenue in unincorporated Round Lake early Sunday morning. Two residents managed to leave the house safely and were evaluated by paramedics. Firefighters from the Greater Round Lake Fire Protection District contained the blaze, which had started in the basement and spread to other areas. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 1)
February 28, 2026
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Lake and McHenry Law Enforcement Heighten Vigilance Amid US-Israeli Military Actions: Law enforcement agencies in Lake and McHenry counties are increasing vigilance and actively monitoring for potential threats following recent US and Israeli coordinated military actions against Iran. Authorities report that while no credible threats have been identified locally, heightened awareness and situational monitoring remain in place. This response aligns with a nationwide alert among federal, state, and local agencies as global tensions rise. Officials continue to assess any implications for community safety in the region. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 28)
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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)
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Wauconda Deck Fire Displaces Two Residents After Smoking Materials Ignite Blaze: A fire started by improperly discarded smoking materials on a deck spread to a single-story home in Wauconda, displacing two residents. The incident occurred Thursday evening on the 1100 block of Northshore Drive, prompting a response from local fire and police departments. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find the rear of the home engulfed in flames, and police had already used an extinguisher to limit the damage. The blaze rendered the residents homeless, according to officials. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 28)
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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)
February 27, 2026
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One Woman Killed, Another Critically Injured in I-90 Crash Near Huntley: A 21-year-old woman died and another person sustained critical injuries following a collision with a semi-truck on Interstate 90 west of Route 47 near Huntley early Thursday morning. Emergency crews from the Huntley Fire Protection District responded to the scene at around 4:30 a.m. and found both vehicles, including a heavily damaged Chevrolet Malibu, off the roadway. Both occupants of the sedan required extrication and were taken to a nearby hospital. Illinois State Police are continuing to investigate the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 27)
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Coroner Releases Names of Two Killed in Head-On Collision on Route 173 in Wadsworth: Authorities have identified Kelly Wooten, 51, and Jacklyn Bradley, 45, both from Stoughton, Wisconsin, as the two people killed in a head-on crash Thursday morning on Route 173 in Wadsworth. Investigators report that their sedan veered out of its lane and collided with a semi-truck, resulting in fatal blunt force injuries. The incident prompted an extended closure of Route 173 between Route 41 and North Kilbourne Road for several hours. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Newport Township Fire Protection District responded to the scene. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 27)
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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)
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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)
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Woman Dies After Hit-and-Run Incident on Sheridan Road in Winthrop Harbor: Authorities in Winthrop Harbor are investigating a hit-and-run on Sheridan Road near 14th Street that resulted in the death of a woman late Thursday evening. Emergency responders arrived at the scene around 11:10 p.m. and found the victim in the roadway before transporting her to a hospital in Waukegan with critical injuries. The vehicle involved fled the scene prior to police arrival. Officials are asking for information from the public to assist with the ongoing investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 27)
February 26, 2026
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Two People Killed in Head-On Collision on Route 173 Near Zion: A fatal head-on collision occurred Thursday morning on Route 173 west of Kilbourne Road in unincorporated Zion, claiming the lives of two individuals. Emergency responders from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Newport Fire Protection District arrived at the scene around 7:50 a.m. and found substantial damage involving a passenger car and a semi-truck, as well as a third vehicle. The crash resulted in the closure of Route 173. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 26)
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Two Critically Injured in Crash Shutting Down Interstate 90 Near Huntley: Two people suffered life-threatening injuries in a collision involving a semi-truck and a Chevrolet Malibu on Interstate 90 westbound near Route 47 by Huntley. Emergency responders were called around 4:30 a.m., and both victims required minor extrication from the damaged sedan. One individual was airlifted while the other was transported by ambulance to Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital. The incident closed I-90 for several hours while authorities responded and investigated. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 26)
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Richmond Equestrian Center Owner Suspended from National Group After Arrest: Raymond Krussell, the owner of Krussell Stables in unincorporated Richmond, has been suspended from a national equestrian organization where he served as a judge following his arrest. The charges stem from allegations that Krussell sexually assaulted a former underage employee at his business. The investigation began after the now-adult victim reported the abuse to the McHenry County Sheriff's Office. Authorities allege the misconduct started when the victim was 15 and took place at the stables. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 26)
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Multiple Vehicles and Equipment Destroyed in Fire on Maryville Drive in McHenry: A fire broke out Wednesday afternoon on the 3000 block of Maryville Drive in McHenry, destroying a boat, snowmobile, trailer, and garden tractor stored on the property. Firefighters responded quickly after reports indicated the blaze started with a large boat and spread to a wood pile, with other vehicles at risk. The incident produced a significant plume of black smoke that was visible from a distance. No injuries were reported, and authorities managed to prevent further spread. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 26)
February 25, 2026
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Two Men Hospitalized After Falling Through Ice on Fox River in Port Barrington: Emergency responders rescued and hospitalized two men on Wednesday afternoon after they fell through the ice while attempting to fish on a Fox River channel in Port Barrington. The Wauconda Fire District and McHenry County Sheriff’s Office responded quickly to the incident, which occurred near Riverside Lane. Firefighters entered the water to reach the men, who were approximately 50 feet from shore. Both individuals were transported for medical evaluation following the rescue. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 25)
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Police Seek Suspect After Domestic Home Invasion Injures Woman in Algonquin: Authorities are searching for a suspect who allegedly forced entry into a residence in the Willoughby Farms Estates subdivision in Algonquin and assaulted a woman in a domestic-related incident on February 18. The situation reportedly began as a verbal dispute that escalated into physical violence, resulting in the woman being injured. Police responded to the home on Barrett Drive around 9:11 p.m. The suspect is believed to have fled the scene in a vehicle before officers arrived. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 25)
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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)
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McHenry Resident Charged With Animal Cruelty After Neglect of Six Dogs: A 29-year-old man from McHenry was arrested on charges of animal cruelty after authorities allege he disposed of two deceased dogs and neglected four others. Prosecutors say the surviving dogs were subjected to starvation and poor living conditions but are now under the care of McHenry County Animal Control. At least one of the neglected dogs is available for adoption, while another has already found a home. The case is advancing in McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 25)
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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)
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Fox Lake Garage Destroyed After Electric Vehicle Fire Spreads to Structure: A fire originating from an electric vehicle destroyed a two-car detached garage on Rose Avenue in Fox Lake early Tuesday morning. Fire crews from the Fox Lake Fire Protection District responded quickly and contained the blaze before it could cause major damage to nearby homes. The house next to the garage sustained only minor damage, and there were no reported injuries. The garage was deemed a total loss following the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 25)
February 24, 2026
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Coroner Identifies Man Found Deceased Beneath Wonder Lake Ice After Search: Authorities have identified Michael Giba, 50, of Wonder Lake, as the man whose body was discovered under the ice on Wonder Lake following his disappearance. Police began searching after he was reported missing from the 5200 block of West Lake Shore Drive, with both local and sheriff’s departments involved. Giba had not been seen for several days, and his body was located Saturday afternoon after a drone spotted him in the lake. The incident remains under investigation by officials. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 24)
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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)
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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)
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Huntley House Sustains Major Damage After Fire, Residents Alerted by Bystander: A house in the 10600 block of Kathleen Avenue in Huntley suffered significant damage after a fire broke out on Monday evening. A passerby helped evacuate the residents before firefighters from the Huntley Fire Protection District arrived. Crews responded quickly and contained the flames within about 15 minutes, but the incident left the residents displaced. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 24)
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Woman Faces Charges After Wrong-Way Drunk Driving Crash in Gurnee: A woman is facing charges after reportedly driving the wrong way on Washington Street in unincorporated Gurnee and colliding head-on with a landscaping work truck Saturday night. The incident occurred east of Route 45 and involved a Tesla Model 3 and a Ford F-350 equipped with a snowplow. Both the driver and a passenger in the Tesla sustained injuries as a result of the crash. First responders from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Gurnee Fire Department assisted at the scene. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 24)
February 23, 2026
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AbbVie to Invest $380 Million in Lake County Expansion, Adding 300 Jobs: AbbVie plans a significant $380 million investment at its North Chicago facility in Lake County, Illinois, to construct two new manufacturing buildings dedicated to active pharmaceutical ingredients. This expansion is expected to generate 300 full-time jobs in the area. State officials say the project highlights Illinois' growing life sciences sector and strong local workforce. The new facilities aim to advance the region's pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 23)
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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)
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North Chicago Burger King Reopens Following Kitchen Fire and Temporary Closure: The Burger King located at 2320 Green Bay Road in North Chicago has reopened after a kitchen fire caused a temporary closure. The incident occurred on February 16 around 8:40 p.m., prompting a significant emergency response due to a broiler fire and heavy smoke. Fire crews extinguished the blaze and ensured the restaurant was safe before it resumed business. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 23)
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Lucky Day Lotto Ticket Worth $1.15 Million Sold in McHenry County Store: A Lucky Day Lotto ticket worth $1.15 million was sold at the Chemung Country Store, located at 24102 Route 173 in unincorporated Harvard, McHenry County. The winning ticket matched all five numbers in Saturday evening’s Illinois Lottery drawing. The Chemung Country Store, a long-standing community business, noted that most of its customers are locals and hopes the jackpot winner is among them. The landmark store has served the area for over 38 years. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 23)
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Canadian Wildfire Ash in Rain Linked to Utility Pole Fires Across Lake County: Multiple utility pole fires occurred in six separate locations across Lake County, Illinois, reportedly due to sediment-laden rain linked to Canadian wildfires. Emergency crews responded to incidents involving downed wires, including a section of Route 173 near Antioch, where the roadway was closed for safety. Investigators indicated that residue from the rain may have increased the combustibility of wooden utility poles. Power company crews assisted to resolve hazardous conditions. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 23)
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Body Discovered in Wonder Lake Believed to Be Missing Resident: Authorities in Wonder Lake believe a body found beneath the ice on Wonder Lake over the weekend is likely that of a man who had been reported missing from his home on West Lake Shore Drive. The search, coordinated by both Wonder Lake Police and McHenry County Sheriff’s Office, began after the man was last seen several days prior. A drone located a figure in the water, prompting fire rescue teams to recover the body. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to confirm the individual's identity. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 23)
February 22, 2026
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Mundelein's Royal Cantonese Restaurant Closes After Co-Owner John Lew's Death: Royal Cantonese, a long-standing family restaurant in Mundelein, closed its doors permanently following the sudden death of co-owner John Lew earlier this month. The establishment, founded in 1975 by the Lew family, served the community for nearly 50 years. John Lew is survived by his wife and two sons, and the closure has left many local patrons and residents saddened by the loss. The restaurant's legacy in Mundelein is marked by decades of dedicated service. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 22)
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Body Recovered From Wonder Lake During Search for Missing Person: Emergency personnel recovered a body from Wonder Lake on Saturday afternoon while searching for a missing individual reported from a residence in the 5200 block of West Lake Shore Drive. Authorities, including the Wonder Lake Fire Protection District, police, and McHenry County Sheriff's Office, used a drone to locate the body under the ice approximately 100 feet from shore. Specialized teams performed the water recovery, and no responders were injured. The case remains under investigation by law enforcement. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 22)
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Missing Man Identified as Deceased Individual Found Along Route 176 in Prairie Grove: Authorities in Prairie Grove closed Route 176 between Route 31 and Smith Road Saturday morning after a body was discovered on the roadside. Police later confirmed the deceased was a man who had previously been reported missing. The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office and Crystal Lake Fire Rescue responded to the 4300 block of Route 176 shortly before 7 a.m. following a report from a 911 caller. The investigation is ongoing as officials work to determine the circumstances of the death. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 22)
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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 21, 2026
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Fox River Grove House Destroyed by Extra-Alarm Fire, Family Displaced: A family was displaced after a large fire completely destroyed their home in the 100 block of Grove Avenue in Fox River Grove on Friday afternoon. Emergency crews from over twelve departments responded to the third-alarm blaze and encountered challenges with water supply while battling the flames. The family escaped without injury prior to firefighters' arrival, but the house was declared a total loss. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 21)
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Stolen Vehicle Crash in Lake Villa Injures Three Juveniles After Police Pursuit: Three juveniles were injured early Saturday when a stolen Hyundai sedan crashed and caught fire in Lake Villa following an attempted police stop. The vehicle, reported stolen from an apartment complex on Milwaukee Avenue, was pursued by sheriff's deputies before the collision near Grass Lake Road and Tower Drive. Authorities responded quickly to the incident, and the injured individuals were taken for medical care. The case remains under investigation by local law enforcement. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 21)
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Police Investigate After Man Found Deceased Along Route 176 in Prairie Grove: Authorities launched a death investigation early Saturday after the body of a man was discovered in the grass along Route 176 near the border of Crystal Lake and Prairie Grove. Emergency crews responded to the scene in the 4300 block of Route 176 following a 911 report of an unresponsive individual. The section of Route 176 between Route 31 and Smith Road was closed as police worked at the scene. The McHenry County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 21)
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Zion Man Sentenced to 21 Years for Armed Carjacking and Police Chase in Waukegan: A Zion man, Elijah Monette, 22, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for his role in an armed carjacking involving a mother and child in Waukegan in March 2024. Monette, along with other suspects, was accused of wielding a machine gun and fleeing from police, prompting a high-speed chase through Lake County that concluded in North Chicago. The incident occurred at a retail parking lot on North Lewis Avenue. Charges included aggravated vehicular hijacking and multiple weapons offenses. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 21)
February 20, 2026
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Crystal Lake Police Investigate Burglary Involving Vehicle at Smoke Shop: Crystal Lake police are investigating a burglary where a vehicle was used to forcibly enter Smoke Depot, located at 435 Angela Lane, early Friday morning. Officers responded to a burglar alarm just before 7 a.m. and discovered the front of the business had sustained significant damage. No injuries were reported, and no suspects were apprehended at the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the incident to identify those responsible. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 20)
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Three Men Hospitalized After Ice Rescue on Pistakee Lake in Johnsburg: Firefighters in Johnsburg responded promptly to a water emergency on Pistakee Lake near Oak Park Lounge when three adults fell through thin ice, reportedly while ice fishing Thursday afternoon. The McHenry Township Fire Protection District arrived within minutes and rescued the individuals, who were partially submerged. All three men were hospitalized following the incident. Authorities continue to caution about hazardous ice conditions in the area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 20)
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Three Juvenile Girls Attacked by Large Group on Algonquin Trail, One Injured: Authorities responded after three girls, ages 12 to 16, were attacked by members of a group of 15 to 20 boys near a pedestrian tunnel along a walking and biking trail south of Bunker Hill Road and Randall Road in Algonquin. The incident took place Saturday afternoon, and police arrived shortly after the group encounter reportedly turned violent. One girl suffered minor injuries and received treatment at the scene before being released to her parent. The investigation into the attack remains ongoing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 20)
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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 19, 2026
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78-Year-Old Driver Hospitalized After Crashing Into Antioch Assessor’s Office: A 78-year-old woman was transported to the hospital after she accidentally drove her vehicle into the front of the Antioch Township Assessor’s Office on Main Street Thursday morning. Emergency responders from the Antioch Police and Fire Departments arrived at the scene shortly after 9 a.m. The woman, who was the only person in the car, reported chest pain but her injuries were not life-threatening. No additional injuries inside the building were reported. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 19)
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Fox Lake Fire Leaves Resident Displaced and Cat Dead After Significant House Damage: A fire broke out Sunday afternoon at a home in the 700 block of South Route 59 in Fox Lake, prompting response from multiple fire departments. The homeowner reportedly discovered the fire upon returning and called emergency services, with firefighters arriving to find moderate smoke coming from the two-story house. All human occupants had exited safely, but a cat died in the incident. The fire caused major damage to the house and left the resident without a home. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 19)
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Social Worker Accused of Illegally Recording Women in McHenry County College Restroom: A 25-year-old social worker from Woodstock was arrested after being accused of recording several women in the restroom at McHenry County College in Crystal Lake. Alejandro A. Zavala-Ramirez faces three felony counts of unauthorized videotaping after allegedly using a cellphone to film three victims within a short period on campus. The incidents reportedly occurred on February 12 and were investigated by the college's police department. Legal proceedings are underway in McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 19)
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Warrant Issued in McHenry Theft Case for Man Serving Federal Sentence for Fraud: A McHenry County judge has issued a warrant for Alan J. Hanke, a Crystal Lake resident facing felony theft charges involving the Sons of The American Legion. Hanke is currently in federal custody in Minnesota, serving a four-and-a-half-year prison term related to an $8 million Ponzi scheme. His absence from a scheduled court appearance in McHenry County prompted the local warrant. Hanke's state case remains pending while he serves his federal sentence. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 19)