Marine veteran identified among victims of Fox River boat collision

A 48-year-old woman identified as Magdalena Jablonska, a U.S. Marine veteran who moved to Chicago from Poland, died after a high-speed collision on the Fox River on Saturday. The incident occurred when 45-year-old Richard Stevenson, operating a pontoon boat, struck the family’s vessel from behind while traveling at about 80 mph and under the influence of alcohol, according to prosecutors.

Jablonska’s sister, Michelle Macias, said her sibling "would go above and beyond for anyone, there was no one like her, the most selfless and kind person you would ever meet." She added that Jablonska joined the Marines straight out of high school and was known for her love of dogs and support for animal shelters.

Stevenson, an employee of the family-owned Stevenson Crane Company, has been charged with aggravated DUI and reckless homicide. Prosecutors reported his blood-alcohol level was twice the legal limit and cited a record of more than 20 years of prior DUI, reckless-driving, fleeing-and-eluding, and speeding convictions. Witnesses said he was drinking from a bucket of Fireball whisky bottles while driving and later stopped at a bar for additional drinks. After the crash, Stevenson remained at the scene, was taken to a hospital, and allegedly refused blood and urine tests.

Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg expressed frustration and sadness over the "reckless, dangerous, and inexcusable" actions that led to the fatality and injuries. The sheriff’s office noted that the victims were simply enjoying recreational time on the water.

Stevenson was detained pending trial, with his next court appearance scheduled for August. His employer issued a statement confirming his termination from the equipment sales department and offered condolences to the families.