McHENRY, Ill. (TNND) — A 48-year-old woman was killed in a boating crash on the Fox River Saturday afternoon.
Magdalena Jablonska, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, died after a pontoon boat allegedly operated by 45-year-old Richard Stevenson collided with a 20-foot Crownline boat around 2:30 p.m., south of the McHenry Dam. Authorities reported that Jablonska sustained catastrophic injuries.
Stevenson has been charged with two counts of aggravated driving under the influence causing death and one count of reckless homicide. He was apprehended near the crash site after his boat ran aground. According to prosecutors, blood tests revealed Stevenson’s blood alcohol concentration was approximately 0.200, exceeding Illinois’ legal limit for operating a motor vehicle.
Witnesses stated Stevenson had been consuming alcohol throughout the day and driving recklessly before the incident. Investigators noted that Stevenson has a history of three prior DUI charges and multiple traffic-related offenses.
Deputy Chief Brian Miller described Stevenson as “a ticking time-bomb” at the hearing. He was ordered to remain in custody pending trial and is set to return to court on August 5.
McHenry County State’s Attorney Randi L. Freese emphasized the tragedy of the incident, urging for community safety on local waterways. “No family should have to endure the unimaginable loss suffered in this case,” she said.