Local News
Highland Park Authorities Respond to Diver Emergency on Lake Michigan
HIGHLAND PARK, Ill. (Lake County) — Emergency crews launched a large-scale response Friday after a diver went missing while conducting a search in Lake Michigan near Highland Park.
A mayday distress call was transmitted from the area of 10 Park Avenue, prompting a full-scale rescue operation.
According to initial reports, the diver had entered the water as part of a search effort for a previously reported missing person when communication and contact were lost.
In response, officials escalated the incident to a third-alarm dive box, deploying multiple dive teams, marine units, and emergency personnel to the scene.
Rescue crews continued intensive search operations along the lakefront into the evening.
As of this report, the diver remains unaccounted for.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the identity of either the missing diver or the individual originally reported missing.
The situation remains active, and further updates will be provided by the Highland Park Fire Department and Lake County authorities as information becomes available.
Local News
Ka’Ontee’ Dajuan Johnson Killed in Crash on Lucas and Hunt Road in North St. Louis County
Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in an early-morning crash in north St. Louis County as Ka’Ontee’ Dajuan Johnson, 30.
According to the St. Louis County Police Department, North County Precinct, officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash at approximately 1:26 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in the 9000 block of Lucas and Hunt Road.
Upon arrival, officers located Johnson, who had been struck by at least one vehicle while he was in the roadway.
Johnson was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Police stated that the driver of one involved vehicle remained on scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation.
A preliminary investigation indicates that Johnson was in the roadway at the time he was struck.
Family members have expressed concerns that another vehicle may have struck Johnson first and fled the scene, and they believe the circumstances surrounding the incident may involve possible foul play.
Authorities have not confirmed these claims but noted that the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident remains under active investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone with information related to this crash is urged to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210.
Individuals wishing to remain anonymous or be eligible for a potential reward may contact CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).