Partial human head recovered from Fox River in McHenry County, investigation ongoing
A partial human head was found in the Fox River on Wednesday night, prompting a coroner-led investigation and a statement that identification has not yet been possible.
McHenry County officials reported that a partial human head was recovered from the Fox River at approximately 9:20 p.m. on Wednesday. County Coroner Dr. Michael Rein said the remains have not been positively identified.
The discovery follows a recent boat collision on the same river that resulted in the death of 48-year-old Magdalena Jablonska and injuries to her fiancé and dog. The crash occurred Saturday around 2:30 p.m. when a 31-foot pontoon operated by Richard Stevenson struck a 20-foot Crownline boat, causing Stevenson’s vessel to ride over the smaller craft and come to rest on land. Prosecutors have stated that Jablonska was decapitated in the incident and that not all of her body has been recovered. Stevenson, of Lisle, faces charges including aggravated DUI and reckless homicide, with his blood alcohol level reported at more than twice the legal limit.
The coroner’s office is collaborating with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and other county officials. > "We understand how difficult this uncertainty is for the families and loved ones awaiting answers, and our team is working diligently and with the utmost care to establish a positive identification as quickly as possible," Rein said. The office asked for public patience as the investigation continues.