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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 24, 2026
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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)
February 22, 2026
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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 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)
February 16, 2026
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Crystal Lake Man Arrested for Sending Sexual Messages to Minor: A 58-year-old Crystal Lake resident was arrested after police determined he sent explicit sexual messages to a minor through an instant messaging app. The incident was reported by the girl's mother at the Crystal Lake Police Department on February 5. Following an investigation by the department’s Criminal Investigations Unit and consultation with the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office, authorities charged the man with grooming, a Class 4 felony. He is currently in custody at the McHenry County Jail. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 16)
February 10, 2026
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Driver Unharmed After Striking and Breaking Utility Pole in Woodstock: A male driver avoided injury when his vehicle veered off the road and struck a utility pole, causing the pole to break, in Woodstock on Tuesday afternoon. Emergency personnel responded to the incident at the intersection of Gayle Drive and Dean Street, finding the heavily damaged vehicle on private property. The driver had already exited the car prior to their arrival and declined further medical attention. Authorities have not reported any additional injuries in connection with the crash. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 10)
February 8, 2026
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Belvidere Man Receives 36-Year Prison Sentence for Sexual Assault in McHenry County: A 59-year-old Belvidere resident, Jesus Zepeda, was sentenced to 36 years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a minor in McHenry County. Authorities reported that the offenses occurred over a two-year period, with Zepeda taking the victim to different parks and using coercive tactics to silence her. Evidence presented in court showed repeated incidents in a vehicle and attempts to discourage disclosure through gifts. The case came to light when the victim informed a family member, leading to police involvement. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 8)
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)
February 5, 2026
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Woodstock Council Approves Flock Cameras for Square Amid Debate Over Surveillance: The Woodstock City Council has approved a contract to purchase six Flock surveillance cameras for Woodstock Square, despite objections from some members and residents. The council opted for the Flock Safety Group proposal, costing $21,800 in the first year and $21,500 annually for the following two years. An alternative bid offering more cameras and expanded storage was rejected due to higher costs. The decision followed a lengthy public meeting and a split council vote. (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 2, 2026
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Woodstock City Council to Choose Between Security Camera Proposals for Town Square: The Woodstock City Council is set to decide between two companies for the installation of security cameras on the Woodstock Square. During an upcoming meeting, council members will review proposals from Flock Safety Group, offering a lease agreement for six cameras with data storage, and Modern Media Tech, which proposes purchasing eight cameras with optional storage. The session will be held at the Woodstock City Council chambers. The choice will determine the city's future surveillance capabilities for the area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 2)
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Woodstock Willie Predicts Early Spring at Annual Groundhog Days Event: At the annual Woodstock Groundhog Days celebration in Woodstock, the groundhog known as Woodstock Willie predicted an early arrival of spring after reportedly failing to see his shadow. The event drew thousands to Woodstock Square for festivities that included a 5K run, movie screenings, a chili cookoff, and guided tours of filming sites from the 'Groundhog Day' movie. Actor Steven Tobolowsky attended and participated in announcing the forecast. The tradition continues to attract large crowds and strong community interest. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Feb 2)
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)
January 24, 2026
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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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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 21, 2026
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Man Airlifted After Forklift Accident Causes Serious Injury Near Woodstock: A man sustained a serious head injury after falling from a forklift on Washington Street, just outside Woodstock, early Wednesday morning. Responders from the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District and the McHenry County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to the scene following reports of possible entrapment. Emergency crews arranged for a medical helicopter which transported the injured individual to Northwestern Medicine Hospital for treatment. The situation remains under investigation by local authorities. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 21)
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)
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 14, 2026
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Detached Garage Destroyed in Woodstock Fire, Causes Estimated $200,000 in Damage: A detached garage on the 1300 block of Clay Street in Woodstock was destroyed by fire on Wednesday morning, causing approximately $200,000 in damage. The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District responded quickly after receiving a report at around 10:58 a.m. and found the garage engulfed in smoke and flames. The fire posed an immediate threat to two nearby homes but was contained by crews with support from neighboring departments. No injuries were reported and the cause remains under investigation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 14)
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 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)
January 7, 2026
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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 6, 2026
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Woodstock Walmart Reopens Partially After Arson Fire Causes Major Damage: The Walmart store on Lake Avenue in Woodstock has reopened select sections after an arson-driven fire resulted in about $5 million in damages and nearly a week-long closure. Customers can now access groceries, consumable goods, and the Pharmacy and Vision Center while other portions of the store remain closed. Cleanup and restoration efforts continue as the company works to restore full operations. No timeline was given for the reopening of the remaining store areas. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 6)
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 2, 2026
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Woodstock Man Charged With Attempted Murder After Gas Station Clerk Assault: Authorities in Woodstock arrested a 29-year-old man following a violent attack on a female store clerk at a Shell gas station on North Eastwood Drive. Police responded Wednesday morning to find the employee seriously injured after being struck multiple times inside the store. Investigators used statements from the victim and security footage to identify and locate the suspect. The incident is being treated as an attempted murder, and the suspect remains in custody. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 2)
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Man Charged With Attempted Murder After Violent Attack at Woodstock Gas Station: A 29-year-old Woodstock resident faces attempted murder charges after a violent incident at a Shell gas station on North Eastwood Drive. Authorities say the suspect assaulted a female clerk, leaving her with significant injuries to her face, ribs, and arms, and attempted to cause an explosion at the station. Woodstock police responded quickly, providing aid and collecting evidence, while a judge denied the suspect pre-trial release. The case remains under active investigation by local authorities. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 2)
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Woman Accused of Setting Fire at Woodstock Walmart Faces Aggravated Arson Charge: A 21-year-old Woodstock woman was charged with aggravated arson after allegedly setting fire inside the Walmart store on Lake Avenue in Woodstock on New Year's Eve. Surveillance footage reportedly captured her using an accelerant to spark the blaze while the store was occupied, leading to about $5 million in damages and a temporary closure. Emergency responders evacuated the building, and no injuries were reported. The suspect remains in custody following a court order. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 2)
January 1, 2026
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Woodstock Woman Charged Following Arson That Caused Major Damage to Walmart Store: A 21-year-old resident of Woodstock was arrested and faces felony charges for allegedly starting a fire at the Walmart located at 1275 Lake Avenue on New Year’s Eve. The incident prompted a significant emergency response from the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District and local police. The fire reportedly caused over $5 million in damage to merchandise and temporarily closed the store. Authorities continue their investigation as the accused faces substantial legal consequences. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 1)
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Officials Investigate Fire at Woodstock Walmart That Prompted Temporary Closure: A fire inside the Walmart at 1275 Lake Avenue in Woodstock on New Year’s Eve led to a store evacuation and temporary closure due to smoke and product damage. The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District and local police arrived shortly after 7 p.m. to find employees had already activated emergency procedures. The automatic sprinkler system extinguished the flames before firefighters entered to investigate. Authorities are currently conducting a police investigation into the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Jan 1)
December 29, 2025
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Semi-Truck Overturns on Route 47 in Woodstock During Hazardous Winter Weather: Early Monday morning, a semi-truck carrying grain overturned on Route 47 near Ware Road in unincorporated Woodstock, Illinois. Both occupants of the truck were evaluated by paramedics but did not require additional medical care. Snow, icy roads, and strong winds caused dangerous travel conditions throughout McHenry County, leading to numerous weather-related accidents that kept first responders busy through the morning. No hazardous materials were spilled during the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 29)
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Winter Weather Causes Multiple Crashes in Lake and McHenry Counties: Lake and McHenry counties experienced several vehicle accidents on Monday morning as high winds and light snowfall combined to create slick roads. The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for northern Illinois, including Lake, McHenry, and several adjacent counties, predicting wind gusts reaching 55 mph and up to an inch of snow accumulation. The hazardous conditions prompted warnings for area motorists. The advisory was in effect from early morning until 10 a.m. Monday. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 29)
December 24, 2025
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Driver Accused of Traffic Violations After Car Crashes Into Woodstock Supermarket: A vehicle driven by a Woodstock resident crashed through the front of Restaurante El Sol and Supermercado El Sol on East Church Street in downtown Woodstock on December 16. Authorities say the driver allegedly failed to stop at a sign and was using an electronic device at the time of the collision. Emergency crews responded promptly and found the driver, who was alone in the car, uninjured and outside the vehicle. No injuries were reported among building occupants as a result of the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 24)
December 21, 2025
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McHenry County Fire Departments Join Operation North Pole Event for Children: Several fire departments from McHenry County participated in the Operation North Pole Christmas train event, aimed at providing support and joy to children facing serious or terminal illnesses and their families. The event marked the return of the holiday train after a five-year pause, offering gifts to the children and collecting food donations for local pantries. Residents in the Chicago area were encouraged to show support as families took part in this annual trip. The initiative sought to uplift local families during the holiday season. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 21)
December 20, 2025
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Harvard Man Arrested After Police Pursuit Through McHenry County: A 23-year-old Harvard resident, Marco Gomez, was arrested following a police chase that began after he allegedly failed to stop for a traffic violation in McHenry County. The incident started on December 12 near Route 176 and Franklinville Street, with Gomez reportedly fleeing at high speeds and discarding items from his vehicle. The pursuit traveled through multiple communities before authorities detained him in Harvard. Gomez was found to have outstanding warrants at the time of his arrest. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 20)
December 17, 2025
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Vehicle Strikes Woodstock Restaurant and Supermarket Storefront, No Injuries Reported: A vehicle crashed into Restaurante El Sol and Supermercado El Sol on East Church Street in downtown Woodstock early Tuesday morning, according to local authorities. Emergency responders arrived shortly after 6 a.m. to find the driver, who was alone in the car, had exited safely and did not require medical attention. No one inside the businesses was harmed during the incident. The storefront sustained minor damage, including a broken window that has since been secured. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 17)
December 12, 2025
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Belvidere Man Convicted of Child Sexual Assault in McHenry County: A 58-year-old man from Belvidere has been convicted in McHenry County of sexually assaulting a minor over a two-year period. The jury found him guilty after evidence showed he assaulted the child on several occasions in local parks and attempted to prevent disclosure by offering gifts and using coercion. The crimes were uncovered when the child reported the incidents to a family member, prompting an immediate police investigation. The abuse reportedly occurred between September 2021 and September 2023. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 12)
December 7, 2025
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Woodstock Woman Charged With Drug Possession and Alleged Attempt to Conceal Evidence: A 37-year-old woman from Woodstock, Illinois, faces multiple drug-related charges after authorities allege she was found with significant amounts of fentanyl and cocaine. According to McHenry County officials, the woman was arrested after deputies discovered 22 grams of cocaine and fentanyl, along with paraphernalia related to drug manufacturing. While in custody, she reportedly tried to coordinate with her roommate to hide additional drugs. The case is being handled by the McHenry County Circuit Court. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 7)
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Woodstock Appliance Store Experiences Additional Collapse After Recent Roof Failure: Thompson Appliance in Woodstock faced further structural decline after its roof collapsed earlier in the week, prompting concerns of a complete building failure. City officials were initially alerted to major structural damage at the Clay Street property, where the roof collapse was discovered by the owner. Emergency responders and building inspectors assessed the site, confirming ongoing risks. No one was inside at the time, and officials have continued monitoring the hazardous situation. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 7)
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Lake and McHenry Counties Receive Up to 7 Inches of Snow with Early Seasonal Record: Parts of Lake and McHenry counties in Illinois experienced up to seven inches of snowfall over the weekend, with areas such as Lindenhurst and Capron reporting the highest totals. The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory affecting multiple counties as a weather system brought significant accumulation beginning late Saturday. The early and substantial snowfall marks the fastest start to the snow season in the Chicagoland area since 1978. The advisory remained in effect until 9 a.m. Sunday. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 7)
December 3, 2025
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Roof Collapse at Woodstock Appliance Store Prompts Emergency Precautions: A roof collapse at Thompson Appliance on Clay Street in Woodstock led authorities to declare the structure at immediate risk of a complete collapse on Wednesday afternoon. The incident was discovered by the building owner, and emergency responders quickly set up a secure perimeter around the property. The business was not open to the public during the event, thus no injuries were reported. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation as they assess the building's stability. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Dec 3)
November 29, 2025
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Lake and McHenry Counties Brace for Continued Heavy Snowfall After Storm: Lake and McHenry counties have experienced significant snowfall, with totals reaching up to 7 inches in some communities by early Saturday evening, according to the National Weather Service. Areas like McHenry, Woodstock, Wadsworth, and Antioch reported from 5 to 7 inches, while O'Hare International Airport recorded 3 inches. Over 1,100 flights were canceled at O'Hare, and hazardous road conditions have been reported as snow is expected to continue into Sunday morning. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 29)
November 22, 2025
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Woodstock Reconsiders Flock Surveillance Camera Proposal After Initial Stalemate: The Woodstock City Council is again weighing a proposal to lease six surveillance cameras from Flock Safety Group for the Woodstock Square, following a recent tie vote that left the matter unresolved. The three-year agreement would cost over $21,000 per year, partially offset by a $9,000 grant targeting organized retail crime. The cameras are intended for video monitoring, not license plate reading. Council members are expected to revisit the ordinance next month as resident concerns continue to surface. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 22)
November 17, 2025
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One Airlifted After SUV Strikes Unattended Vehicle on Route 14 in Crystal Lake: Emergency services responded to a two-vehicle collision on Route 14 near Lucas Road in Crystal Lake on Sunday evening. Authorities reported that a Chevrolet SUV collided with an unoccupied Ford SUV left in the roadway, resulting in serious facial injuries to the Chevrolet's driver. That individual was first taken to a nearby helipad and then airlifted to a trauma center, while a second person also required hospital care. Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 17)
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Two-Vehicle Crash Causes SUV Rollover Near Woodstock, No Injuries Reported: Emergency responders were called to a crash at Route 14 and Hughes Road in unincorporated Woodstock on Saturday morning. The collision involved two vehicles, including a Jeep Wrangler that rolled over and sustained heavy damage. Despite the severity of the crash and initial concerns prompting a helicopter standby, no injuries were reported. Part of the roadway was temporarily closed while crews addressed the incident. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 15)
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Brush Fire Near McHenry Burns 15 Acres, Draws Large Multi-Agency Response: A wind-driven brush fire consumed roughly 15 acres on South Crystal Lake Road near McHenry on Sunday afternoon, prompting a response from over a dozen fire departments across Lake and McHenry counties. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find the blaze actively spreading behind a residence and barn, accelerated by strong west winds. The Mutual Aid Box Alarm System was activated to bolster resources needed for containment. The incident highlighted the challenges of coordinating wildfire responses in the area. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 17)
November 16, 2025
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Resident Injured in Johnsburg House Fire That Caused Widespread Damage: A house fire began at the back of a residence in the 4000 block of North Hillcrest Place in Johnsburg early Sunday, resulting in significant damage to the structure. Firefighters from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded just before 8 a.m. and managed to contain the blaze within 40 minutes. One resident sustained injuries, and all occupants safely exited the home. The incident left the residents displaced due to the extent of the fire damage. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 16)
November 15, 2025
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Fire Destroys Barn, Kills Over 50 Chickens and Damages House Near Harvard: A fire early Saturday morning on the 4700 block of Lindwall Road in unincorporated Harvard destroyed a barn, killed more than 50 chickens, and caused damage to both a nearby house and two vehicles. Multiple fire departments responded quickly to the scene after the blaze was reported around 5:29 a.m. Firefighters arrived to find the barn fully engulfed in flames and partially collapsed. The house sustained fire damage before the blaze was brought under control. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 15)
November 8, 2025
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Firefighters Rescue Two Residents from House Fire on East Todd Avenue in Woodstock: A house fire broke out Saturday morning on East Todd Avenue in Woodstock, prompting a prompt response from the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District and nearby agencies. Two residents, who were unable to evacuate due to limited mobility, were safely rescued by firefighters and later evaluated by paramedics. Crews managed to contain the fire to a single bedroom within minutes of arrival, limiting further damage. The incident required an upgrade to a working fire but was brought under control efficiently. (Source: Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Nov 8)