Crime & Safety

McHenry Man Charged With Murder for Island Lake Woman's Death

A 49-year-old McHenry man has been charged with murder for the death of Karen M. Scavelli, who was found in her Island Lake home Monday night. 

Howard E. Dibbern became a "person of interest" in the Island Lake death investigation after he crashed Scavelli's car, which police said he stole, into a house in Mundelein on Tuesday, according to a McHenry County Sheriff's Office press release. He was arrested Thursday after being released from a hospital. 

He is charged with murder and possession of a stolen vehicle. A $2 million bond has been set in the case. 

Preliminary findings from an autopsy performed Tuesday found Schavelli's cause of death to be from injuries sustained from blunt force trauma. 

Investigation Continues 

Investigators are looking to speak to anyone: including family and associates who may have spoken to or have knowledge of the whereabouts of Dibbern and Scavelli between June 2 to 3 that may aid investigators in the death investigation. 


The public is encouraged to contact the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office Tipline at (815)338-2144, tipline@co.mchenry.il.us or anonymously to Crime Stoppers of McHenry County 1-800-762-7867 (STOP).


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