Dawn Patrol: Wanted Elgin man on the loose; pension delay
Elgin man still at large
An Elgin man who threatened to kill his wife while pointing a gun at her head Thursday remains at large today after eluding police during a car chase, police said. Eric M. Galarza, who has an extensive criminal record, ditched the vehicle near Wayne and fled into a state park on foot, police said. Authorities called off the search after a few hours due to rough terrain and tiring dogs. Galarza was the intended target of a gang-related shooting that killed his 5-year-old son in October. Full story.
Injured veteran receives mortgage-free home
A Sugar Grove veteran who suffered severe injuries when his Humvee went over a bomb in Afghanistan in 2004 found out yesterday that he and his family are the recipients of a mortgage-gree home. The home was specifically built for a disabled veteran, and Army Spc. Nick Mapson was chosen because of his positive outlook on his future. An anonymous donor contributed more than $200,000, roughly half the cost, for the 1,900-square-foot ranch in Antioch. Full story.
Lawmakers push back pension discussions
Illinois lawmakers have pushed back meetings another five weeks before they rejoin Gov. Pat Quinn to address the state's $83 billion pension debt. Quinn said Republicans continue to oppose a proposal that would cost suburban school districts millions by shifting future retirement costs onto them. Quinn's office will study various funding ideas over the next five weeks. The state's pension debt is growing by nearly $13 million per day. Full story.
Barrington Hills man killed in Afghanistan
A Vietnam War veteran from Barrington Hills was killed in a firefight in Afghanistan Tuesday, where he was providing security and training Afghani soldiers. Tom Boyle, 62, left retirement to serve and had also completed tours in Kosovo and Iraq. As a Chicago police officer, Boyle captured two men who were later convicted or murdering a Wheeling police officer in 1985. Full story.
Buffalo Grove backs Route 53 plans
Buffalo Grove officials unanimously endorsed final plans for the northern extension of Route 53 into Lake County, which recommend the roadway become a four-lane, limited access, tolled parkway. The report recommends the roadway have a 45-mph maximum speed that extends from the highway's current end at Lake-Cook Road north to Route 120. Full story.
Weather
Lots of sunshine today and awesome temperatures. The day starts at about 65 degrees, but will only increase to about 83 degrees this afternoon. It will dip back to 61 degrees by the end of the night. Possible rain isn't expected until Sunday. Full story.
Traffic
No early problems to report n the area highways. However, people are still urged to avoid bridge replacement construction on Burr Road between Bolcum Road and Silver Glen Road in St. Charles. That roadwork is expected to continue through August of 2012.
King James gets his title
James had 26 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists, leading the Heat in a 121-106 rout of the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night to win the NBA Finals in five games. James was also named the Finals MVP. Full story.
Will Blackhawks take a goalie first?
The NHL draft starts tonight, and the Blackhawks have the 18th pick of the first round. Tim Sassone predicts two top goalies will be available by the time Chicago's choice rolls around. Full story.