C.L. PD grabs DUI hit-and-run driver

The Crystal Lake P.D. made quick work of a reported hit-and-run last night and issued the following press release.

"On August 9th, 2010 at approximately 10:00 pm, the Crystal Lake Police Department responded to a report of a hit and run motor vehicle accident at the intersection of McHenry Ave. and Virginia St. that involved a pedestrian. Witnesses at the scene reported that a red Chevrolet pickup truck had entered the intersection, struck a pedestrian in the cross walk and subsequently fled the scene. Witnesses at the scene reported the accident immediately and rendered aid to the injured pedestrian while another witness followed the offending vehicle.

"Through information gathered by the witnesses at the scene and the individual following the suspect vehicle, police were able to locate the pickup truck in question leaving the Chili’s restaurant parking lot entering on to Federal Way. The suspect vehicle was stopped by police and the subsequent investigation indicated that the vehicle, a 2000 red Chevrolet pickup truck being driven by Brian K. Koester had struck the pedestrian at McHenry Ave. and Virginia St just minutes before.

"The pedestrian was ambulatory and conscious at the scene and was transported for further evaluation by the Crystal Lake Fire Department to Northern Illinois Medical Center in McHenry. The pedestrian, a 16 year old male, indicated he was walking in the crosswalk when struck by the offender who immediately left the scene. The offender Brian K. Koester (DOB: 01/08/93) of 9712½ Lilja Rd., Harvard, IL was charged with Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident, Driving with a BAC over 0.08, Failure to Give Information/Render Aid in an Injury Accident, Failed to Yield to Pedestrian, Underage Consumption of Alcohol, and a Class 4 Felony of Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Accident. The Koester subject was transported to the McHenry County Jail to await an appearance before the court.

"Two 17 year old male passengers in the offending vehicle were also cited for Underage Consumption of Alcohol, given notices to appear for September 2nd, 2010 and released. They were Patrick S. Towne of 8006 Walker St., Harvard, IL and Austin J. Bielski 1005 Garfield St., Harvard, IL. The investigation is ongoing and will be further reviewed by the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.