A Round Lake man is now facing felony charges in connection with a fiery two-vehicle collision in North Chicago last September that killed a 33-year-old resident whose car went up in flames. The victim has been identified as Thomas Michael Byrne of North Chicago.
Prosecutors have charged 24-year-old Anebal Hicks with two counts of reckless homicide by motor vehicle and two counts of aggravated reckless driving causing bodily harm. An arrest warrant led to his booking into the Lake County Jail on January 29, according to Lake and McHenry County Scanner. Hicks appeared in First Appearance Court and was released under pre-trial conditions, with a preliminary hearing set for March 12.
The crash was reported around 12:05 p.m. on September 21, 2025, in the 2900 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive near Meadow Lane. Multiple 911 callers reported that one vehicle was fully engulfed in flames and that someone might still be trapped inside. First responders arrived to find a sedan consumed by fire and a heavily damaged Jeep Grand Cherokee. The sedan had come to rest in a patch of bushes, while the Jeep stopped against a fire hydrant. The Jeep's driver was taken to a hospital with injuries that were described as not life threatening, according to Accident Data Center.
What Reckless Homicide Means In Illinois
In Illinois, reckless homicide involving a motor vehicle is generally charged as a Class 3 felony. The law also allows prosecutors to seek tougher penalties, upgrading the offense to a Class 2 felony in certain situations, such as when the driver is in a school or construction zone or when impairment or similar aggravating factors are proven. The statute outlines sentencing ranges and the specific circumstances that can elevate the charge, according to Justia.
Case Status And Next Steps
Hicks has already made his initial court appearance and was released on pre-trial conditions, according to Lake and McHenry County Scanner. He is scheduled to return to Lake County court on March 12 for a preliminary hearing, where prosecutors are expected to present evidence for a judge to decide whether the case moves forward.
Remembering Thomas Byrne
According to his obituary, Byrne earned a degree in chemistry and biology from Rollins College. Family and friends remembered him for his love of music and sports and for a sharp, quick wit that made an impression on those around him. Visitation and a Mass were scheduled at St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Church, according to the funeral home handling arrangements.
