Amy Morton's The Barn has opened its second North Shore location in Highland Park, bringing an 80‑seat dining room and a tucked‑away speakeasy to downtown. The project was supported by a city incentive and local leaders say it will activate a cobblestone alley.

A photo of a white‑winged scoter swallowing an invasive crayfish helped Loyola researchers uncover unusually high microplastic loads in the river's crayfish.

An 8-year-old at Nettelhorst School was left with broken teeth after an alleged hallway assault, and her family says they've filed a police report. The district and police are reviewing the incident.

A 16-year-old was shot in the knee in Chicago Lawn Wednesday night and is in good condition at Comer Children's Hospital.

Three men face felony burglary charges after sheriff’s police say they broke into freight railcars on the Southwest Side. Norfolk Southern drone footage and recovered bolt cutters led to arrests.

Surveillance footage shows thieves smashing windows at an apartment parking lot near 31st Street and King Drive in Bronzeville, leaving at least 10 vehicles damaged.

The Chicago Bears will raise season-ticket prices by an average of 13.5% for 2026, citing market research, heavier home scheduling and ongoing stadium planning.

A body was pulled from the Fox River near North Center Street in South Elgin; police have opened an investigation and have not released the person’s identity.

Illinois says it has erased more than $1.1 billion in medical debt for over 500,000 residents through a state program that partners with nonprofit Undue. Officials say the average relief was about $1,200 per person.

Sen. Neil Anderson filed SB3572 to declare a fertilized egg a legal person; after a Springfield news conference he lost GOP committee spokesperson duties amid backlash.

Gusty southwest winds and low humidity raise fire danger Wednesday across the Chicago area. Officials discourage outdoor burning and urge caution.

A medical emergency on Blue Line tracks near Washington suspended service through the Loop, blocked Dearborn at Madison and forced shuttle buses into service during the morning commute.

A 16-year-old was shot while fleeing an attempted robbery in West Pullman Monday night; he was taken to Roseland Community Hospital and police reported no arrests.