Home / Disasters and Accidents / Veteran Decapitated in Boating Tragedy
Veteran Decapitated in Boating Tragedy
29 Jul
Summary
- US Marine veteran Magdalena Jablonska died on Fox River.
- Suspect Richard Stevenson faces DUI and homicide charges.
- Jablonska's family is raising funds for local dog shelters.
A 48-year-old U.S. Marine veteran, Magdalena Jablonska, was tragically killed on the Fox River in Illinois on Saturday, July 25th. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. when a pontoon boat, allegedly operated by 45-year-old Richard Stevenson, collided with another boat at high speed. Jablonska sustained fatal blunt force injuries to her head and body.
Richard Stevenson was arrested and now faces charges including two counts of aggravated driving under the influence causing death and one count of reckless homicide. He is currently in custody and appeared in court on Wednesday, August 5th. Jablonska's fiancé and their dog were also injured in the collision.
Jablonska, who moved to Chicago from Poland, was remembered by her sister as an exceptionally selfless and kind person who would help anyone. Her family noted her strong love for animals, especially dogs, and have initiated a GoFundMe campaign in her memory to benefit local dog shelters. Jablonska's brother described her as the "sunshine in every place she went" and always eager to help those in need.
