50-year-old man remembered after being found dead following crash near Richmond

Jose Angel Gonzalez's family says he 'lit up every room he walked in'

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A 50-year-old Wisconsin man, Jose Angel Gonzalez, died on February 10 after suffering a medical event and crashing his car off the roadway near 374th Avenue and State Line Road in unincorporated Richmond, Illinois. Gonzalez was remembered by his family as a 'very outgoing' person who 'lit up every room he walked in'.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of road safety and the need to be aware of potential medical emergencies while driving. Gonzalez's death has deeply impacted his family and community, underscoring the human toll of such unexpected events.

The details

Gonzalez, a resident of Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, was driving a black 2012 GMC Terrain SUV southbound on County Highway HM when his vehicle left the roadway and continued across the state line into Illinois, coming to rest on a berm. An off-duty member of the Twin Lakes Fire Department and Rescue Squad was on the scene providing lifesaving measures, but Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities determined that Gonzalez had suffered a medical event that led to the crash, and there were no indications of speed, alcohol, or drugs being contributing factors.

  • On February 10, Gonzalez suffered a medical event and crashed his car near Richmond, Illinois.
  • On February 16, a celebration of life was held for Gonzalez at George's Pub and Grill in Twin Lakes.

The players

Jose Angel Gonzalez

A 50-year-old resident of Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, who worked as an Operations Lead at Leica Biosystems in Spring Grove and was remembered by his family as a 'very outgoing' person who 'lit up every room he walked in'.

Richmond Township Fire Protection District

The fire department that responded to the crash scene and provided assistance.

McHenry County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that handled the death investigation.

Kenosha County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the crash portion of the incident.

Twin Lakes Fire Department and Rescue Squad

The fire department that assisted at the crash scene, including an off-duty member who was already on the scene providing lifesaving measures.

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What they’re saying

“Joe was very outgoing and lit up every room he walked in. He loved socializing and making everyone laugh. He was known for his kindness and always putting others first.”

— Gonzalez's family (Obituary)

“This is a tragic loss for the individual's family and loved ones. Our deputies and emergency responders acted quickly and professionally in their efforts to provide aid.”

— Kenosha County Sheriff David Zoerner (lakemchenryscanner.com)

“We extend our sincere condolences to the family during this difficult time. Incidents like this are a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change and the importance of looking out for one another on our roadways.”

— Kenosha County Sheriff David Zoerner (lakemchenryscanner.com)

What’s next

The McHenry County Coroner's Office will continue to investigate the cause of Gonzalez's medical event that led to the crash.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of being aware of potential medical emergencies while driving and the need for communities to come together to support families during difficult times. Gonzalez's legacy as a 'very outgoing' person who 'lit up every room he walked in' will continue to inspire those who knew him.