Suspect Tries Forcing Entry to Burglarize Lake Forest Home

Surveillance video also captures man prowling around other houses in the area.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:57pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged door lock, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A recent wave of attempted home invasions in Lake Forest has residents on high alert, underscoring the need for vigilant neighborhood watch programs and robust home security measures.Lake Forest Today

Police are investigating an attempted residential burglary in Lake Forest, Illinois, where a suspect tried to forcibly enter a home on McCormick Drive. Surveillance footage also shows the same suspect prowling around other houses in the Villa Turicum subdivision that same evening.

Why it matters

Residential burglaries and home invasions are serious concerns for many communities, as they can lead to property loss, damage, and a sense of violation for homeowners. This incident highlights the importance of home security measures and vigilant neighborhood watch programs in deterring and apprehending suspected criminals.

The details

According to police, the suspect or suspects used force in an attempt to gain access to the home on McCormick Drive, but were ultimately unsuccessful. Surveillance video from a nearby residence captured the same individual crawling and prowling around other houses in the Villa Turicum subdivision around the same time. Police received multiple calls about the suspicious activity and conducted an extensive search of the area, but the suspect was not found.

  • The incident occurred around 8:44 p.m. on April 4, 2026.
  • Surveillance footage shows the suspect prowling around other homes in the Villa Turicum subdivision around 9:20 p.m. on the same night.

The players

Lake Forest Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the attempted burglary and suspicious activity in the Lake Forest neighborhood.

Kevin Zelk

The Lake Forest Deputy Police Chief, who provided details about the ongoing investigation.

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What they’re saying

“Unfortunately, no one was found.”

— Kevin Zelk, Lake Forest Deputy Police Chief

What’s next

Police are continuing their investigation and urge residents to use alarm systems, install security cameras, and report any suspicious activity immediately.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of proactive home security measures and community vigilance in deterring and apprehending suspected criminals. It also highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in responding to and investigating burglary attempts and other property crimes.