Latest News
March 1, 2026
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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)
February 27, 2026
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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)
February 26, 2026
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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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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)
February 19, 2026
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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)
February 17, 2026
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Fire Renders Home Uninhabitable Near McHenry After Electrical Incident: A fire occurred Monday evening in a home on the 2700 block of West Russett Road in unincorporated McHenry, causing extensive smoke damage that made the residence uninhabitable. Firefighters from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded within minutes, finding smoke emerging from the house. The two residents were able to evacuate safely before emergency crews arrived. Officials attributed the cause of the fire to an electrical issue originating in the office area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 17)
February 14, 2026
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Fire Displaces Residents in Unincorporated McHenry Neighborhood: A fire broke out early Saturday morning in the 2500 block of North Freedom Drive, just outside McHenry, Illinois, leaving residents without a home. Responding fire departments arrived within minutes to find flames coming from the attic of an attached garage. The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office assisted in evacuating three individuals from the house. The blaze caused significant damage to the living area and has left those affected seeking temporary shelter. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 14)
February 10, 2026
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Richmond Stable Owner Held in McHenry County Jail on Sexual Assault Allegations: A 52-year-old stable owner from Richmond, Illinois, has been ordered held in McHenry County Jail following allegations of sexually abusing a minor employee over the course of a year. Authorities began investigating after the now-adult victim reported the abuse, which allegedly began when she was 15 years old and worked at Krussell Stables. The arrest follows evidence presented in court by the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s office. The legal process will continue as the investigation proceeds. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 10)
February 7, 2026
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Crystal Lake Man Begins Federal Sentence, Awaits Local Fraud Trial in McHenry County: Alan J. Hanke, a 61-year-old Crystal Lake resident, has started serving nearly five years in federal prison for his involvement in an $8 million Ponzi scheme. Despite the federal conviction, Hanke must still face a March 30 trial in McHenry County, where he is accused of unauthorized use of a veterans group's debit card, resulting in over $10,000 in losses. Local authorities allege the card was used for cash withdrawals and purchases at various businesses. The outcome of the county trial remains pending. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 7)
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Richmond Stable Owner Charged With Sexual Assault of Teen Employee: Raymond Krussell, owner of Krussell Stables in Richmond, Illinois, has been charged with multiple felony offenses related to a sexual relationship with a teenage employee. Court records state that the incidents occurred over a period of more than a year, beginning when the victim was 16. Krussell faces charges including criminal sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual abuse, grooming, and distributing harmful material to a child. He is currently being held in McHenry County Jail following a court hearing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 7)
February 6, 2026
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McHenry Police De-escalate Armed Crisis, Facilitate Mental Health Assistance: McHenry Police responded to a call on Elm Street involving a person experiencing a mental health crisis and claiming to be armed. Officers used phone communication to resolve the situation quickly, with the individual exiting the home unarmed after a brief conversation. The weapon involved was later identified as an airsoft gun. The person was taken to a local hospital for treatment, and police confirmed that no charges will be filed in this incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 6)
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McHenry Woman Sentenced to 14 Years for Fatal Drunk Driving Incident in Island Lake: A McHenry woman received a 14-year prison sentence after striking and killing a Wauconda man in Island Lake while driving with a blood alcohol level three times the legal limit. Prosecutors reported that the driver had consumed approximately twelve alcoholic drinks at two bars before the crash, which threw the victim 40 feet through the air. The woman also attempted to submit a false insurance claim following the incident. The sentencing was issued by a McHenry County judge. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 6)
February 5, 2026
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Huntley Resident Sentenced for Public Indecency Following Garage Incident: A Huntley man has pleaded guilty to public indecency after being charged with performing a lewd act in his garage while the door was open, making the act potentially visible to others. Robert Lacey, 62, was convicted of a misdemeanor in McHenry County and received court supervision, a requirement to complete a sex offender evaluation within 90 days, and a $150 fine. Lacey is scheduled to return to court in May unless he fulfills these conditions beforehand. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 5)
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Sprinkler System Limits Damage in Early Morning Fire at Crystal Lake Complex: An early morning fire at a multifamily residential complex on Ambassador Circle in Crystal Lake was contained thanks to an active sprinkler system and prompt fire department response. Firefighters arrived shortly after 1 a.m. to find smoke coming from a garage and successfully extinguished a small fire that had been kept in check by the building’s sprinklers. Damage was limited to one garage, preventing further destruction or injuries. Authorities credit the safety systems for minimizing loss in the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 5)
February 1, 2026
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Driver Injured After Vehicle Hits Utility Pole on Route 12 Near Fox Lake: A single-vehicle accident occurred early Sunday morning on Route 12 at State Park Road near Fox Lake, resulting in one person being injured. The car was traveling westbound when it left the road and collided with a utility pole, which broke and fell due to the impact. Emergency responders extracted the driver, who was the only occupant, and transported him to Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital. The crash also disrupted power in the area, requiring assistance from ComEd. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 1)
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Hundreds Gather in McHenry County to Protest Federal Immigration Enforcement: Approximately 1,000 people gathered at the intersection of Route 31 and McCullum Lake Road in McHenry to protest federal immigration enforcement activities. The demonstration, organized by Indivisible McHenry County, took place from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday and aimed to oppose the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement as well as border patrol agents nationwide. Organizers described the event as peaceful and significant for the local community. The protest concluded without reports of major incidents. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 1)
January 28, 2026
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Antioch Man Found Guilty in McHenry for Drug and Firearm Offenses After Traffic Stop: A jury has found John T. Boland, 39, of Antioch, guilty on multiple drug and firearm charges after a traffic stop in McHenry in May 2024. Boland, already a convicted felon on supervised release, was apprehended after officers linked a vehicle he was using to a prior law enforcement chase. Authorities discovered significant quantities of drugs, and Boland attempted to dispose of a firearm in a squad car after his arrest. He now faces sentencing following the convictions. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 28)
January 26, 2026
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Driver Escapes with Minor Injuries After Pickup Truck Strikes Tree Near McHenry: A man sustained only minor injuries following a single-vehicle crash Sunday evening near Moraine Hills State Park on South River Road in unincorporated McHenry. The accident occurred when a pickup truck veered off the road and collided with a large tree, causing a sizable limb to break and collapse onto the truck's cab, trapping the driver. Emergency crews from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded promptly and freed the man. Authorities have confirmed that no serious injuries were reported in the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 26)
January 25, 2026
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Severe House Fire Destroys Home Near McHenry During Frigid Temperatures: Firefighters responded to a major house fire early Saturday in the 3300 block of North Bayview Lane in unincorporated McHenry, Lake County. The blaze, reported shortly after 2 a.m., destroyed the home as wind chill temperatures dropped to minus 30 degrees, complicating firefighting efforts. Multiple 911 calls were made, prompting a large response from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District. The structure was ultimately reduced to ruins, and no injuries were immediately reported. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 25)
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Crystal Lake Police Arrest Suspect in Group Robbery and Assault of Juvenile: An 18-year-old from Crystal Lake was arrested and charged after a juvenile was attacked and robbed in November. According to McHenry County officials, the incident involved several individuals who assaulted the child, causing significant injuries. The group reportedly stole $20 in cash and a cannabis vape cartridge from the victim, whose phone was also damaged during the robbery. The investigation resulted in multiple charges, including aggravated battery and robbery. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 25)
January 24, 2026
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Crystal Lake Man Faces Delayed Trial for Alleged Theft from McHenry Veterans Group: Alan J. Hanke, a 61-year-old resident of Crystal Lake, is facing a delayed trial in McHenry County after being charged with theft and fraud related to unauthorized use of a veterans group’s debit card. Hanke is accused of making cash withdrawals and purchases exceeding $10,000 from the Sons of The American Legion in McHenry between January 2023 and March 2024. This trial postponement comes as Hanke was recently convicted in a separate federal case involving an $8 million Ponzi scheme. He is scheduled to report to federal prison in the coming weeks. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 24)
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House Destroyed by Fire During Subzero Wind Chills Near McHenry: Firefighters responded to a major house fire in the 3300 block of North Bayview Lane in unincorporated McHenry early Saturday morning, facing wind chills near -30 degrees. Upon arrival, crews found the single-family home fully engulfed and battled flames for hours. The fire threatened a nearby detached garage, but no residents were present when the fire broke out. The blaze ultimately left the structure completely destroyed. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 24)
January 22, 2026
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Fake 911 Call Triggers Police Response to Home in Unincorporated McHenry: Authorities responded to a home on the 200 block of Lily Lake Road in unincorporated McHenry after receiving a 911 report of a shooting involving two family members on January 15. Police and fire department units arrived around 7:35 a.m., but investigators soon determined the distress call was a fabricated 'swatting' incident. No shooting or injuries were confirmed at the scene, and the event concluded without further escalation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 22)
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Huntley Man Faces Child Sexual Assault Charges; Investigation Suggests More Victims: A 58-year-old Huntley resident, Robert S. Henze, has been arrested on multiple charges related to the sexual assault of a child under 13. According to police, the investigation began after a report in May and involved collaborative efforts from Illinois and North Carolina child advocacy centers. Authorities say additional potential juvenile victims were identified and interviewed as part of the inquiry. A search warrant was executed at the suspect's home as part of the ongoing investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 22)
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Funeral Services Announced for McHenry Man Fatally Struck on Route 120: Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for Ronald Wills, a 64-year-old resident of McHenry, after he died as a result of being struck by a car while crossing Route 120 near Meadow Lane. Authorities from the McHenry Police Department and Fire Protection District responded to the accident last Thursday evening. A crash investigation remains ongoing following the incident. Wills was remembered as both a father and a grandfather, and services are scheduled for Friday. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 22)
January 20, 2026
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Cary Resident Charged in Burglary at Downtown Crystal Lake Barber Shop: A 44-year-old man from Cary has been charged following a reported burglary at O’Grady’s Barber Shop in downtown Crystal Lake on January 9. Authorities allege the suspect forcibly entered the business during the early morning hours and stole hair clippers valued at over $500. He faces felony charges of burglary and theft, as well as a misdemeanor for damaging a power box on the property. The incident remains under review in McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 20)
January 19, 2026
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Two Injured in Major Fire at Downtown McHenry Bakery and Pet Store: A significant fire broke out Sunday afternoon at a commercial property on North Riverside Drive in downtown McHenry, Illinois, impacting both Riverside Bake Shop and Reese’s Barkery & Pawtique. Emergency crews from 30 departments responded to the scene, where two people were reported injured. Firefighters worked extensively to control the blaze, which caused major damage to the businesses. This incident has had a profound effect on the local community. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 19)
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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)
January 18, 2026
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Multiple Fire Departments Respond to Major Fire at Downtown McHenry Bakery: A significant fire broke out at 1309 Riverside Drive in downtown McHenry, prompting a large response from fire departments across multiple counties. The affected building houses Riverside Bake Shop and Reese’s Barkery & Pawtique. Firefighters arrived to heavy smoke from the single-story commercial property, escalating to a multi-alarm situation. The fire led to major emergency activity in the area as crews worked to contain the damage Sunday afternoon. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 18)
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Wonder Lake Snowplow Driver Hospitalized After Collision With Passenger Car: A collision between a Village of Wonder Lake snowplow truck and a passenger car took place Sunday morning at the intersection of Wooded Shore Drive and East Wonder Lake Road. The incident required response from the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office and local fire protection district. The snowplow driver was taken to a local hospital in stable condition for further evaluation, while the driver of the car declined medical treatment. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and prioritize community safety. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 18)
January 16, 2026
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Pedestrian Fatally Injured After Being Hit by Car on Route 120 in McHenry: A 64-year-old man died after being struck by a car while attempting to cross Route 120 near Meadow Lane in McHenry on Thursday evening. According to police, the vehicle that hit the pedestrian then collided with a second car. Emergency responders from the McHenry Police Department and McHenry Township Fire Protection District arrived at the scene shortly after 5:20 p.m. The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 16)
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Coroner Identifies Man Killed in Pedestrian Accident on Route 120 in McHenry: A 64-year-old resident of McHenry, Ronald Wills, died after being struck by a car while attempting to cross Route 120 near Meadow Lane on Thursday evening. Emergency responders from the McHenry Police Department and McHenry Township Fire Protection District arrived at the scene around 5:20 p.m., finding the victim unresponsive. Authorities report that a red 2008 Ford Focus was traveling eastbound at the time of the incident. The investigation into the crash is ongoing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 16)
January 15, 2026
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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)
January 11, 2026
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Woodstock Aquatics Official Files Lawsuit After Injury at Algonquin Adventure Park: The Aquatics Coordinator for the City of Woodstock has become the third individual to sue Fun City Adventure Park in Algonquin, following separate foam pit accidents that reportedly caused injuries. The most recent lawsuit was filed after the coordinator sustained serious injuries when jumping into the attraction's foam pit in August. Plaintiffs in these cases allege negligence on the part of the park, claiming the foam pit was not adequately safe. The cases are proceeding in McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 11)
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Former McHenry Resident Arrested in Arkansas on Child Assault and Kidnapping Charges: A 35-year-old former McHenry, Illinois resident, currently living in Yellville, Arkansas, has been arrested on multiple felony charges, including kidnapping, sexual assault of a child, and threatening with a firearm. The individual was taken into custody following two separate incidents reported to Marion County authorities. Investigators conducted interviews and coordinated with a local Child Advocacy Center during the inquiry. The suspect is being held on a $100,000 bond as the case proceeds. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 11)
January 10, 2026
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No Charges Filed After Semi and Garbage Truck Crash Near Marengo Injures Three: Emergency crews responded early Wednesday morning to a crash involving a semi-truck and a garbage truck near Route 23 and Collins Road in unincorporated Marengo. Three individuals were taken to the hospital after the collision caused significant vehicle damage and led to a prolonged closure of Route 23 between Kishwaukee Valley Road and River Road. Authorities have determined that no charges will be filed against the semi-truck driver. The roadway has since reopened following the investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 10)
January 9, 2026
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House Fire in Crystal Lake Displaces Residents and Injures One Person: A house fire in the 1400 block of Candlewood Drive in Crystal Lake on Thursday afternoon caused extensive damage, leaving the property uninhabitable and residents without a home. Multiple fire departments responded, and the incident required an upgrade to a mutual aid response. One individual sustained injuries in the blaze, which resulted in an estimated $100,000 in damage. The cause of the fire and further details about the displaced residents were not released. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 9)
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Taxi Driver Dies After Two-Vehicle Crash at Fox Lake Intersection: A taxi driver died after being found unresponsive and taken to the hospital following a collision involving two vehicles Friday morning in Fox Lake, Illinois. Emergency crews responded to the scene at East Grand Avenue and Rollins Road around 7:17 a.m. and discovered significant damage to both vehicles. One vehicle ended up off the roadway among trees, prompting a lengthy closure for investigation. Authorities have not released further details about the cause of the crash at this time. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 9)
January 8, 2026
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Lake in the Hills Man Arrested After High-Speed Police Pursuit: A 22-year-old Lake in the Hills resident was arrested following a high-speed police pursuit that included running a red light and briefly driving with headlights off. The incident, which occurred near Randall Road and Polaris Drive, ended after the vehicle went airborne and police intervened. The suspect faces multiple charges, including aggravated fleeing, reckless driving, and operating an uninsured vehicle. Authorities took him into custody without reported injuries. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 8)
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Crystal Lake Officer Reprimanded After Rifle Lost and Recovered Near School: A Crystal Lake police officer received a written reprimand after losing his personal rifle, which was later found by a convicted felon. The weapon, initially left on a vehicle trunk at the officer's home, went missing after the officer's spouse inadvertently drove away with it. The felon allegedly retrieved the gun and concealed it in bushes at the Crystal Lake Public Library near a local school. Authorities conducted an investigation, and the officer reported the incident to superiors. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 8)
January 7, 2026
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Three Hospitalized After Route 23 Crash Involving Garbage Truck Near Marengo: A collision between a garbage truck and a semi-tractor-trailer near Marengo on Wednesday morning resulted in serious vehicle damage and left three people injured. Emergency responders arrived at Route 23 and Collins Road in unincorporated Marengo around 7 a.m., where all victims were later determined to have avoided ejection from the vehicles. The crash prompted authorities to shut down Route 23 between Kishwaukee Valley Road and River Road while crews responded. All injured individuals were transported to area hospitals for care. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 7)
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Gas Station Clerk Seriously Injured in Woodstock Attack, Suspect Charged: A female clerk at the Shell gas station in Woodstock sustained severe injuries during a violent attack on December 31, 2025. According to police, the incident began after a dispute linked to a job application and resulted in the clerk being assaulted multiple times. The suspect, Austin Silverman, 29, faces attempted murder charges following the event. The victim is recovering and will require surgery as her recovery continues. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 7)
January 5, 2026
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Man Hospitalized in Coma After Violent Assault Outside McHenry Bar on New Year's Day: A 27-year-old McHenry resident has been charged following a severe assault outside a local bar early on New Year's Day. Prosecutors allege the man repeatedly punched, kicked, and stomped another individual, leading to critical injuries, including head trauma and the possible loss of an eye. The victim remains in a medically induced coma after the incident, which reportedly left a shoe print on his face. The suspect faces felony aggravated battery charges in McHenry County Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 5)
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Antioch Resident Convicted for Emitting Diesel Exhaust at McHenry Protesters: An 18-year-old resident of Antioch, Nicholas D. Thompson, was found guilty of directing a large cloud of diesel exhaust from his pickup truck toward a group of protesters along Route 31 in McHenry. The incident occurred during the Families First protest on July 26, 2025, which drew over 350 attendees. The event was part of a national movement highlighting concerns about changes to federal programs affecting families. The verdict was delivered by a judge on Monday. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 5)
January 4, 2026
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Community Supports Cary Family After House Fire Claims Home and Pet: A severe house fire on Mulberry Lane in Cary led to the total loss of a family's home and belongings, with a missing dog tragically found deceased after the incident. The Cary Fire Protection District and neighboring departments responded quickly, but the extensive damage displaced the residents. Local community members have since organized efforts to collect donations and essentials for the family. The cause of the fire is under investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 4)
January 3, 2026
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New Year's Eve Fire in Hebron Leaves Residents Without a Home: An accidental fire on New Year's Eve rendered a Hebron house uninhabitable due to extensive smoke damage, according to local fire officials. Multiple area fire departments responded to the incident in the 9600 block of Main Street and contained the fire within 10 minutes. While the fire was restricted to the exterior wall, smoke affected the entire structure. No injuries were reported, but residents have been displaced until repairs and utility restoration are completed. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 3)
January 1, 2026
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Cary House Fire Displaces Family and Leaves Dog Missing: A significant house fire on the 1300 block of Mulberry Lane in Cary resulted in the complete destruction of the residence and its contents. Multiple fire departments responded to the scene, battling the blaze for several hours on Wednesday afternoon. Although firefighters arrived within minutes, they were unable to save the home or rescue the family's missing dog. The incident has left the affected family without a home as they search for their pet. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 1)
December 31, 2025
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FedEx Driver Sues McHenry Homeowners After Dog Bite Incident During Delivery: A FedEx driver initiated legal action against two residents in McHenry, Illinois, after suffering injuries from a dog bite while delivering a package. The lawsuit, filed in McHenry County Circuit Court, alleges that the driver was attacked by two dogs belonging to the residents on Biscayne Road during a delivery in January 2025. The driver claims to have sustained injuries requiring medical care and experienced financial losses. The court will review details surrounding property owner responsibility and dog control. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 31)