Fatal Fox River Collision Leads to DUI Charges Against Construction Executive Richard Stevenson

 A tragic collision on the Fox River has left one person dead, two others injured, and a prominent Illinois business executive facing serious criminal charges. The crash, which occurred Saturday afternoon near the McHenry Dam in McHenry County, has prompted an ongoing investigation as authorities work to determine exactly what happened on one of the region's busiest recreational waterways.

According to authorities, 45-year-old Richard M. Stevenson of Lisle was arrested and charged with aggravated driving under the influence and reckless homicide following the two-boat collision. Jail records indicate Stevenson was booked into the McHenry County Jail at approximately 4:30 a.m. Sunday and is being held pending a court appearance. The charges stem from the fatal crash that unfolded on the Fox River near South Fernwood Lane, south of the McHenry Dam.

Officials said two boats collided during the incident, leaving one person dead at the scene and two others injured. Authorities have not yet publicly identified the victim, and additional information about the conditions of the injured individuals has not been released. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is leading the investigation into the collision and continues gathering evidence surrounding the events leading up to the crash.

Investigators said Stevenson owned the larger boat involved in the collision. He has also been identified as the vice president of Stevenson Crane Service, Inc., a Bolingbrook-based company specializing in crane rentals, aerial and material handling equipment, rigging, and heavy-haul services. His professional role has drawn additional public attention as details surrounding the incident continue to emerge.

Witness accounts cited by local media allege that the larger triple-engine boat was traveling at a high rate of speed before striking a smaller white boat near the McHenry Dam. Those witness statements have not been independently confirmed by investigators as part of the official case. Authorities have not released a final determination regarding the sequence of events or any additional contributing factors while the investigation remains active.

Local reports also state that three people aboard the larger boat left the scene following the collision. According to witness accounts reported by Patch, one individual was pursued by a bystander, while another reportedly departed the area in an Uber. Authorities have not publicly provided further details regarding those individuals or whether any additional charges could result from the ongoing investigation.

As investigators continue reviewing physical evidence, witness statements, and other information, officials are urging the public to allow the investigative process to proceed. Serious boating collisions often require extensive reconstruction and analysis before authorities reach final conclusions regarding the circumstances and any potential legal responsibility.

The fatal Fox River crash has deeply affected the local community while raising renewed concerns about boating safety on heavily traveled waterways. For the family of the person who lost their life, the investigation represents an important step toward understanding what occurred. Authorities have indicated that more information, including the victim's identity and additional investigative findings, may be released as the case progresses.