Round Lake Beach man charged for intentionally ramming truck into Crystal Lake home, causing over $100K in damage

Authorities say Gregory Bruning intentionally crashed into the residence multiple times before fleeing the scene.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

A 60-year-old Round Lake Beach man has been charged with criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, reckless driving, and other offenses after he allegedly intentionally rammed his pickup truck into a home in Crystal Lake, causing over $135,000 in total damage to the residence and several vehicles parked in the garage.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of intentional property damage and the potential for significant financial and safety consequences when someone deliberately targets a private home. The case also raises questions about the suspect's motivations and mental state, as well as the need for stronger laws and enforcement to prevent such reckless acts.

The details

According to authorities, Gregory Bruning drove his pickup truck into the home on Tomahawk Lane in Crystal Lake multiple times on the night of February 13, 2026, causing extensive damage to the residence as well as three vehicles parked in the attached garage, including a Tesla SUV and a Porsche 911 Carrera. The impact was so severe that the Porsche was pushed completely through the back wall of the garage. Bruning then fled the scene before police arrived, but was later located and taken into custody in Round Lake. In addition to the damage at the home, Bruning is also accused of damaging property at a nearby business.

  • The incident occurred around 11:28 p.m. on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
  • Bruning was later located and arrested in Round Lake.

The players

Gregory Bruning

A 60-year-old man from Round Lake Beach who has been charged with criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, reckless driving, and other offenses for allegedly intentionally ramming his pickup truck into a home in Crystal Lake, causing over $135,000 in total damage.

Crystal Lake Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident, investigated the case, and arrested Bruning.

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What they’re saying

“This incident highlights the dangers of intentional property damage and the potential for significant financial and safety consequences when someone deliberately targets a private home.”

— Richard Neumann, Crystal Lake Deputy Police Chief

What’s next

Bruning is being held at the McHenry County Jail, and the Crystal Lake Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident. The judge will determine whether to allow Bruning to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for stronger laws and enforcement to prevent such reckless and destructive acts, as well as the importance of addressing the underlying mental health or other issues that may have motivated the suspect's actions. The significant financial and safety consequences highlight the broader impact that intentional property damage can have on a community.