Masked Man Who Approached Teen Girls Dies by Suicide After Police Pursuit Near Cary Illinois
Suspicious Encounter in a Quiet Suburb Ends in Tragedy
An unsettling incident unfolded near Cary, Illinois, when a man suspected of approaching two teenage girls while wearing a mask died by suicide after a brief police pursuit. Authorities confirmed that the man, who had exhibited suspicious behavior earlier in the day, turned a firearm on himself during a traffic stop.
Teen Girls Alert Adults After Disturbing Encounter
The situation began around 3:25 p.m. when two teenage girls were walking home near Fox River and North Harvest Glen roads in unincorporated Cary. As they walked, a 32-year-old man pulled up in his vehicle, parking in the direction they were headed. He then exited the vehicle wearing a mask, alarming the girls.
Recognizing the potential danger, the teens immediately ran toward home and contacted one of the girls’ father and older brother. Both girls reached home safely.
Family Members Confront the Suspect
Concerned for the girls’ safety and hoping to identify the suspect, the father and brother drove through the neighborhood searching for the vehicle. They eventually encountered the suspect’s car, which blocked their path. The man inside reportedly brandished a firearm, prompting the family members to call 911.
Given Cary’s location on the boundary of Lake and McHenry counties, the call was routed to the McHenry County Sheriff's Office.
Tragic End on the Roadside
A deputy from the McHenry County Sheriff's Office soon located the suspect’s vehicle near Crystal Lake Road and Foxford Drive. When the deputy attempted a traffic stop, the situation quickly escalated.
As the vehicle came to a stop, the man inside picked up a gun and shot himself. Emergency responders arrived on the scene and provided aid, but the man was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Authorities Praise Quick Thinking by Teens
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the teen girls handled the situation appropriately — by trusting their instincts, fleeing a potentially dangerous encounter, and immediately seeking help from responsible adults.
The incident is now being investigated by two departments. The McHenry County Conservation District Police are leading the investigation into the man’s death, while the Lake County Sheriff's Office continues to examine the earlier incident involving the teens.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The event has left the local community shaken, with residents praising the vigilance of the teenagers and their family members. Authorities are expected to release further details as investigations continue.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness, quick action, and community cooperation in ensuring safety — especially when young individuals are involved.