Latest News
April 15, 2026
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Salvation Army Introduces Emergency Response Canteen in McHenry County: The Salvation Army of McHenry County has introduced a new emergency response canteen to support first responders and individuals affected by emergencies. The unveiling ceremony, held on April 6 in Crystal Lake, gathered local leaders, volunteers, and emergency service representatives from multiple area communities. The canteen is intended to enhance rapid response capabilities throughout McHenry County and neighboring regions. This addition aims to improve support at emergency scenes and disaster events. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 15)
April 14, 2026
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Disposal of Smoking Materials Blamed for Hainesville Townhouse Fire: A townhouse fire on Holiday Lane in Hainesville caused significant damage and forced two families to leave their homes. The incident, which occurred on April 7, was traced to improper disposal of smoking materials. Fire crews from the Greater Round Lake Fire Protection District arrived to find flames and heavy smoke coming from the building’s upper floors and roof. Investigators estimate the fire caused $200,000 in damages, but all residents were able to safely evacuate. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 14)
April 13, 2026
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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)
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Fire Causes Major Damage to Hoarder House Near McHenry; Animals Missing: A fire broke out Sunday afternoon at a single-story home on the 3000 block of South Benbrook Avenue in unincorporated McHenry, resulting in significant damage and displacing the resident. Authorities from multiple fire departments and the McHenry County Sheriff's Office responded quickly and attempted to rescue animals from the residence. Several cats, birds, and other animals remain unaccounted for as a result of the incident. Emergency responders found heavy smoke coming from the house upon arrival. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 13)
April 12, 2026
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Cause Determined for McHenry Fire That Injured Two, Destroyed Bakery and Pet Store: Investigators have identified the cause of a January fire that severely damaged a commercial building in downtown McHenry, Illinois. The blaze injured two individuals and destroyed Riverside Bake Shop and Reeses Barkery & Pawtique, resulting in $1.5 million in damages. The incident on North Riverside Drive drew a response from 30 fire departments across multiple counties. The findings offer clarity about the circumstances surrounding the event. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 12)
April 10, 2026
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District 300 Teacher Arrested After Multiple Battery Incidents at Crystal Lake Bar: A teacher from Algonquin-based District 300, Jason K. Katzbeck, 49, was arrested following several alleged assaults at Rookies Sports Bar & Grill in Crystal Lake. Authorities say Katzbeck struck one man in the face and torso, knocked down another man with a chest-bump, and pushed a third before allegedly kicking a responding police officer. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated battery to a peace officer, aggravated battery in a public place, and disorderly conduct. The case is being handled in McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 10)
April 8, 2026
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Fire Damages Two Townhouses and Injures Firefighter in Hainesville: A fire broke out Tuesday evening in the 100 block of Holiday Lane in Hainesville, damaging two townhouse units and displacing two families. Emergency crews from the Greater Round Lake Fire Protection District and Grayslake-Hainesville Police Department responded to the scene and managed to evacuate all residents safely. One firefighter sustained a minor injury during the response. Multiple fire departments joined the effort after a mutual aid request was made. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 8)
April 6, 2026
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McHenry Man Charged with Secretly Recording Men in Restrooms at College and Store: A 20-year-old man from McHenry has been charged with unauthorized videotaping after authorities allege he secretly recorded several men using restrooms at McHenry County College in Crystal Lake in October 2024. The incidents reportedly occurred on the same day, with three men being filmed without their consent. In a separate recent case, the man is also accused of recording another individual at a Meijer store in Sycamore. The McHenry County College Police investigated the case and filed charges. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 6)
April 5, 2026
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Social Worker Arrested After Missing Court in McHenry County College Recording Case: A licensed social worker from Woodstock was taken into custody for failing to appear in court following charges of unauthorized videotaping. Alejandro A. Zavala-Ramirez, 25, is accused of using his cellphone to record three women without consent in the restroom at McHenry County College in Crystal Lake on February 12. The alleged recordings, all occurring within one hour, prompted an investigation by campus police. Zavala-Ramirez faces multiple felony counts and remains held on warrants. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 5)
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Suspect with Federal Immigration Warrant Apprehended After Jumping into Fox River: A man sought by federal immigration authorities was apprehended following an attempt to evade conservation police by jumping into the Fox River in Algonquin. Conservation police initially stopped the individual for fishing without a valid license near the Algonquin Dam. Authorities determined he had an active federal immigration warrant after identifying him. Despite fleeing and entering the river, the suspect was taken into custody soon after. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 5)
April 3, 2026
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Storms Cause House Collapse in McHenry and Tree Damage in Woodstock: Severe storms led to significant damage in McHenry County on Thursday evening, including a house collapse in McHenry that displaced a family of five. Emergency crews responded promptly and ensured all occupants safely exited the home. In a separate incident, a large tree was uprooted and fell onto a residence in Woodstock. Multiple utilities and city departments coordinated at the scenes to secure properties and address hazards following the storm. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 3)
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Construction Worker Injured at Spring Grove Manufacturing Facility: A construction worker sustained a significant arm laceration while working at the Scot Forge manufacturing plant in Spring Grove on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency responders quickly applied a tourniquet and transported the worker to a hospital by ambulance. Authorities initially requested a medical helicopter, but later determined transport by ground was sufficient, as the injuries were considered non-life-threatening. The worker was an outside contractor and not a Scot Forge employee. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 3)
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Huntley Man Arrested After Armed Store Burglary and Attempted Escape at Hospital: A 41-year-old Huntley resident was taken into custody after allegedly breaking into Best Price Tobacco & Gifts on East Main Street during the early hours of Wednesday. Authorities say he was armed during the burglary and is accused of stealing cigarettes and various vape products. Following his arrest, he allegedly attempted to escape from police while at Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital. He faces several charges, including burglary, retail theft, and attempted escape. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 3)
April 2, 2026
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Route 31 in McHenry Closed for Two Hours After Fallen Electrical Line Sparks Fire: Route 31 in McHenry was closed in both directions Thursday morning after a live power line fell near Buss Ford at 111 South Route 31, causing a fire. Fire crews responded around 8:22 a.m. and found that the line had ignited the utility pole and surrounding grass. Police shut down traffic between Bull Valley Road and High Street for almost two hours and advised drivers to use alternate routes. The closure ended after emergency services contained the incident and cleared the area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 2)
April 1, 2026
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Driver Suffers Minor Injuries After Rollover Crash Near Barrington: A McHenry man received minor injuries after his car crashed and overturned near Barrington. Authorities say the incident occurred on March 23 at the intersection of Kelsey Road and Arch Drive in unincorporated Barrington. The driver reportedly veered off the road, hit two signs, and rolled over onto a nearby lawn before emergency responders arrived. The sole occupant did not require hospitalization, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Apr 1)
March 31, 2026
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Police Rescue Resident from Major House Fire in Wauconda Causing $350,000 Damage: Emergency crews responded to a significant house fire on Marine Drive in Wauconda early Tuesday morning. Police officers arrived ahead of firefighters and helped the sole occupant evacuate safely as flames engulfed much of the home. The Wauconda Fire District reported that the fire caused extensive damage, estimated at $350,000, and it appeared to have started in the attached garage. The blaze left the residents displaced with major property loss. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 31)
March 30, 2026
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McHenry Resident Charged with Unlawful Restroom Recording at Sycamore Grocery Store: A 20-year-old man from McHenry was arrested after authorities say he secretly recorded another man inside a restroom at the Meijer on Puri Parkway in Sycamore on March 1. Sycamore police responded to a complaint and, with help from a photo taken by the victim, identified the suspect as Jerardo Hernandez Alonzo. Investigators later interviewed Alonzo at his home, where he admitted to the incident. A forensic review of his phone reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting similar acts elsewhere. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 30)
March 29, 2026
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Trial Delayed for Crystal Lake Man Facing Charges Tied to American Legion Theft: A judge has postponed by four months the trial of Alan J. Hanke, a Crystal Lake resident who is currently incarcerated for his involvement in an $8 million federal Ponzi scheme. Hanke, 61, faces new felony charges accusing him of stealing from the Sons of The American Legion in McHenry County. His hearing was rescheduled as he remains in federal custody at a facility in Minnesota. Legal proceedings will continue after the delay ordered at the recent court hearing. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 29)
March 27, 2026
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Wind-Driven Fire Damages Over 7 Acres of Prairie Land in Prairie Grove: A brush fire broke out Thursday morning at the Crystal Creek Farm Venue in Prairie Grove, severely damaging over seven acres of prairie grass. High winds contributed to the rapid spread of the flames as firefighters from multiple districts responded to the scene. Nunda Rural Fire Protection District coordinated efforts and called for support from nearby fire departments before containing the incident. The blaze caused notable ecological damage but was brought under control without further escalation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 27)
March 26, 2026
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Teen Suffers Major Burns After Attempt to Toss Firework From Moving Car in Lakemoor: A teenage boy sustained significant burn injuries after a firework ignited inside a moving vehicle in Lakemoor. Authorities say the teen attempted to throw the lit firework out the window, but it instead set the pickup truck on fire near Darrell Road and Wagon Trail Road. The blaze completely destroyed the vehicle, and the teen was airlifted to a hospital for treatment. Fire and police crews responded promptly to the incident on Sunday evening. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 26)
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Fire Burns 5 Acres and Damages Equipment Near McHenry, Illinois: A fire on Wednesday afternoon in Holiday Hills, near McHenry, Illinois, burned about five acres of land and damaged various heavy equipment, vehicles, trailers, and additional property. The incident occurred in an industrial area on South River Road, where businesses such as Ozinga Concrete and storage companies are located. Firefighters from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded quickly to contain the blaze. No injuries were reported in connection with the fire. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 26)
March 24, 2026
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House Fire Near McHenry Displaces Residents and Sends Two to Hospital: A fire significantly damaged a single-family home on the 1200 block of North Chapel Hill Road in unincorporated McHenry Tuesday afternoon. Two individuals were transported to the hospital following the incident, while several others were forced to leave their residence. Emergency crews from multiple departments arrived quickly to contain the blaze and prevent further harm. The incident remains under investigation by local authorities. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 24)
March 23, 2026
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Teenager Airlifted After Pickup Truck Fire in Lakemoor Causes Severe Injuries: A teenage boy was seriously injured in a pickup truck fire near Darrell Road and Wagon Trail Road in Lakemoor, close to Heritage Community Park, on Sunday evening. Emergency crews responded to the scene around 9:30 p.m. and found the vehicle fully engulfed in flames. The teen sustained severe burns and was airlifted to the hospital for medical treatment. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 23)
March 21, 2026
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Antioch Resident Receives 20-Year Sentence on Drug and Firearm Charges in McHenry: A 40-year-old Antioch man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after authorities discovered significant quantities of drugs and a firearm during a traffic stop in McHenry. The incident occurred in May 2024 when police, acting on a prior bulletin, stopped the man and later found he attempted to discard a gun in a squad car. Charges included manufacturing or delivery of cocaine, armed violence, and unlawful gun possession. The case concluded with a decisive prison term for the defendant. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 21)
March 20, 2026
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Election Judge Dies at McCullom Lake Village Hall During Poll Duty: Peter Culver, 75, of McHenry, died Tuesday evening after suffering a cardiac event while serving as an election judge at the McCullom Lake Village Hall. Emergency responders arrived around 8:30 p.m. after reports of an unresponsive person, but lifesaving measures were unsuccessful. Local authorities including the McHenry County Coroner’s Office identified Culver and noted his years of community service. The incident occurred at 4811 West Orchard Drive in McCullom Lake. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 20)
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Michigan Man Sentenced to Probation for Arson at Crystal Lake Super 8 Motel: A 30-year-old Michigan man has received probation after pleading guilty to starting a fire in a room at the Super 8 by Wyndham motel in Crystal Lake. The incident occurred on November 10, when first responders arrived to find a small fire inside an occupied second-floor room that had already been extinguished, causing some damage but no visible smoke or flames from the exterior. Multiple fire and police units responded, and the situation was quickly contained. The man admitted responsibility and will serve probation as his sentence. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 20)
March 19, 2026
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Judge Orders Federal Inmate in Ponzi Case to Be Transported for McHenry Trial: Alan J. Hanke, a resident of Crystal Lake, is currently serving a federal prison sentence after pleading guilty to securities fraud in a scheme involving over $8 million. Authorities allege he also stole funds from the Sons of The American Legion in McHenry, leading to separate felony charges. A judge has ordered that Hanke be brought from the Federal Medical Center in Minnesota to McHenry County for a pending trial this month. Hanke began serving his federal sentence after turning himself in earlier this year. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 19)
March 18, 2026
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75-Year-Old Election Judge Dies After Medical Emergency at McCullom Lake Village Hall: A 75-year-old McHenry resident who was serving as an election judge collapsed from a cardiac event at McCullom Lake Village Hall on election day. Emergency responders arrived at the scene after a report of an unresponsive individual and attempted lifesaving efforts, but the man was pronounced dead at the location. The McHenry County Coroner's Office identified the individual as Peter Culver and has initiated a formal investigation. The incident occurred Tuesday evening during election proceedings. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 18)
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McHenry Man Acquitted of Starving, Neglecting Two Dogs; Faces Additional Charges: A McHenry County judge has acquitted a local man of charges related to starving and neglecting two dogs, Meatball and Karma. The defendant, Jason J. Pastryk, 29, was initially charged after authorities found the dogs emaciated in September 2024 during a police investigation. Although found not guilty on these counts, Pastryk still faces further allegations, including accusations that he disposed of the remains of two other deceased dogs inappropriately. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 18)
March 17, 2026
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Man Charged in Home Invasion and Assault Near Spring Grove: A 23-year-old McHenry man, Eutimio Junior Barrios-Hernandez, has been charged with home invasion and other offenses following an incident in unincorporated Spring Grove. Authorities allege he hid inside a woman's apartment on State Park Road, assaulted her early Sunday morning, and prevented her from calling for help. The woman sustained facial injuries requiring medical attention. Barrios-Hernandez faces several charges, including domestic battery and possession of a controlled substance. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 17)
March 16, 2026
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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)
March 15, 2026
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Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Lake and McHenry Counties Before Expected Snowfall: A winter weather advisory has been announced for Lake and McHenry counties as forecasters predict a shift from thunderstorms to accumulating snow late Sunday through Monday morning. The National Weather Service expects one to three inches of snow and wind gusts up to 45 mph, which may cause blowing snow and reduced visibility. Hazardous road conditions are anticipated, particularly during Monday’s morning commute. Residents should expect travel delays due to slick surfaces and periods of low visibility. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 15)
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Wauconda Community Honors Police Officer Christian Pascente at Funeral Service: Wauconda residents, law enforcement officers, and family gathered at Wauconda High School on Saturday to honor Officer Christian Pascente, who died unexpectedly at age 31. Pascente had served with the Wauconda Police Department for over three years and was a resident of McHenry. The ceremony included tributes recognizing his dedication to law enforcement, which family members described as his dream career. His passing has prompted conversations about the pressures officers face. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 15)
March 14, 2026
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Funeral Services Announced for Fox Lake Man Following Deadly Condo Fire: Funeral arrangements have been made for Jason Binzel, a 52-year-old Fox Lake resident and former company vice president, following his death after a condominium fire on St. Thomas Colony Street. The fire occurred early Monday morning in the Vacation Village complex, rendering the unit uninhabitable and causing significant damage. Multiple fire departments assisted in the response. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 14)
March 13, 2026
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High Winds Cause Wide Disruptions in Lake and McHenry Counties: Strong winds across Lake and McHenry counties triggered numerous emergency responses on Friday as crews addressed power outages, downed power lines, and scattered debris. Gusts reached up to 64 mph in some areas, resulting in hazards such as malfunctioning traffic signals and railroad crossings. Thousands in the region lost electricity as both utility companies and first responders worked to restore safety. A wind advisory remained in effect for much of the day. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 13)
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Crystal Lake House Fire Displaces Family of Four: A family of four lost their home after a fire heavily damaged their house on West Woodstock Street in Crystal Lake Thursday night. Responding units from several departments arrived around 10:01 p.m., finding flames coming from the rear exterior of the residence. The blaze caused extensive damage, rendering the property uninhabitable. Firefighters were able to bring the situation under control, but the family is now without a place to live. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 13)
March 12, 2026
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McHenry Resident Charged With Soliciting and Distributing Child Abuse Material: A 36-year-old man from McHenry has been arrested following an investigation by local police into alleged online solicitation and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Authorities began their inquiry in July 2025 after receiving a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding suspicious activity on a messaging app. The suspect faces multiple felony charges related to the distribution and solicitation of illicit material involving minors. He is currently in custody as the legal process moves forward. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 12)
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Identity Released of Man Who Died in Fox Lake Condo Fire: Authorities have identified a 52-year-old man who died after being rescued from a condominium fire in Fox Lake. The incident occurred at Vacation Village on St. Thomas Colony Street early Monday morning, causing heavy damage and leaving the unit uninhabitable. Multiple fire departments responded to the blaze, which was reported around 7:12 a.m. The cause of the fire and further details about the incident are being reviewed by local agencies. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 12)
March 11, 2026
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Wauconda Police Officer Dies by Suicide in McHenry; Funeral Set for Saturday: Wauconda Police Officer Christian Pascente, who had served the department for over three years, died by suicide on Monday at his home in McHenry. Emergency crews transported him to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, where he was pronounced deceased. Lake County authorities confirmed that his death marks the seventh suicide investigated by the coroner’s office in 2026. Funeral arrangements are scheduled for Saturday at Wauconda High School. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 11)
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Fox Lake Police Investigate Child Abuse Allegations Following Raid at Local Home: Authorities in Fox Lake have launched a detailed investigation after an 11-year-old boy fled his home on East Grand Avenue and reported suffering prolonged physical and mental abuse. Police responding to a nearby business found the boy with visible injuries and took him into protective care. Both his mother and stepfather were arrested, and officials indicate that further charges may be forthcoming as the inquiry continues. Child protective services are now involved in the case. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 11)
March 10, 2026
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Fox Lake Condo Fire Claims One Life and Leaves Unit Uninhabitable: A 52-year-old man has died after being critically injured in a condominium fire early Monday morning in Fox Lake. Multiple fire departments responded to the blaze at Vacation Village on St. Thomas Colony Street, where firefighters rescued the man before transporting him for emergency care. The fire caused significant damage, rendering the unit uninhabitable. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 10)
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Fox Lake Couple Detained After Child Abuse Allegations Surface: Two residents of Fox Lake, Priscilla P. Marshall and Cody R. Marion, were arrested after a local 11-year-old ran to a nearby business seeking help. Prosecutors allege the child endured years of severe physical and mental abuse from his mother, while his stepfather allegedly failed to intervene. Authorities responded promptly following reports of the injured child, placing him in protective custody. A judge has ordered both suspects held in jail pending further investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 10)
March 9, 2026
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Fire in Fox Lake Condo Complex Leaves One Critically Injured, Six Units Uninhabitable: A fire broke out on Monday morning at the Vacation Village condominium complex on St. Thomas Colony Street in Fox Lake. Firefighters rescued a man from the blaze, who was taken to the hospital in critical condition. The incident forced residents of six condo units to leave their homes, rendering those units uninhabitable. Multiple fire departments responded to control the fire and assist those affected. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 9)
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Fox Lake Couple Arrested After Child Found Abused and Seeking Help at Local Business: Authorities in Fox Lake responded after an 11-year-old boy, reportedly bruised and bleeding, ran from his home and sought aid at a business along East Grand Avenue. Police found evidence the child had suffered severe physical and mental mistreatment over an extended period, allegedly at the hands of his mother and stepfather. Both were subsequently arrested, and the child was placed into protective custody. The investigation is ongoing as officials review the circumstances leading up to the case. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 9)
March 7, 2026
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McHenry Man Sentenced to Probation for Aggravated Battery in Bar Parking Lot Attack: A 27-year-old McHenry resident, Erik J. Brzenk, received probation after pleading guilty to aggravated battery following a violent assault outside bars in McHenry on New Year’s Day. According to court documents, Brzenk punched, kicked, and stomped on another man, leaving noticeable facial injuries and causing the victim to fall into a drug-induced coma. The attack occurred in a parking lot off Green Street. Although charged with a felony, the case resulted in no prison time for Brzenk. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Mar 7)
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)