All articles tagged with #mchenry county
McHenry County, Illinois, is experiencing a significant rise in whooping cough cases, with a notable outbreak at McHenry High School Upper Campus. Health officials report 11 cases in November and 20 in October, with eight cases linked to the high school. The county has recorded 59 cases in 2024, the highest since at least 2018.
The McHenry County Department of Health has issued a warning following a 100% increase in suspected overdose deaths in October compared to September. While the deaths have not been confirmed as opioid-related, fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is often involved in such cases. The department emphasizes the availability of fentanyl test strips and Naloxone (Narcan) to prevent and reverse overdoses, respectively. These resources are available for free at various locations in the county, and residents are reminded of the Good Samaritan Act, which protects those seeking emergency help for overdoses from prosecution for drug possession.
McHenry County has experienced eight norovirus outbreaks, including four in schools, resulting in 317 reported cases since December 1. The virus, which causes symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea, is highly contagious and has prompted a warning from the county's health department. Residents are advised to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and proper food preparation, to prevent the spread of norovirus. Nationally, norovirus cases are on the rise, with the Midwest currently experiencing a PCR test positivity rate of nearly 13.5%.
Four people have been identified as the victims of a shooting in unincorporated McHenry County near Crystal Lake. Three women were found dead at the scene, while a man and another woman were seriously injured. The man, believed to be the aggressor, later died. The deceased have been identified as Lauren Smith-Song, Jean Song, Yuna Song, and Chang Song. The authorities have not disclosed the relationship between the victims. The motive and details of the shooting remain unknown, and autopsies are scheduled. Neighbors expressed shock and sadness over the incident.
Four family members have been identified after being found dead in a home in Crystal Lake, Illinois. The incident, believed to be a case of a single household member shooting their relatives, occurred early Wednesday morning. Three females were pronounced dead at the scene, while the male believed to be the aggressor later died in the hospital. Another female, who called 911, was seriously injured and taken to the hospital. Autopsies are scheduled for Thursday as the investigation continues.
Four people were killed and one injured in a shooting in unincorporated Crystal Lake, McHenry County. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning, with deputies responding to a call about a family member shooting relatives. The shooter was later pronounced dead, and the person who called authorities was also hospitalized with serious injuries. The McHenry County sheriff's office stated that this was an isolated incident with no threat to the public. The investigation is ongoing, and details about the victims' injuries and the weapon used have not been released. Neighbors expressed shock and disbelief, as the incident was considered out of character for the tranquil neighborhood.
Patrick Gasienica, a 24-year-old Olympic ski jumper from McHenry, died in a motorcycle crash while returning home from work. Gasienica competed in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and was training again at Norge Ski Club for the next Olympics. The McHenry County sheriff’s office is investigating the crash. Gasienica's family and the skiing community are mourning his loss, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to raise money for his mother.