Driver Charged With DUI in Motorcycle Crash That Seriously Injured Woman

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL - An Elgin man and woman were injured in a motorcycle crash that happened early Sunday in unincorporated Woodstock.

Terrance M. Gospodarek, 56, of Elgin, is in stable condition following the crash that occurred in the 16600 block of Garden Valley Road in unincorporated Seneca Township at about 2:14 a.m. Sunday. He is charged with misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol in connection with the crash and more charges are pending, according to a McHenry County Sheriff’s Office press release.

A passenger on the motorcycle, a 47-year-old Elgin woman, was taken by Flight for Life helicopter to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville following the crash. She is listed in serious condition, according to a news release..

The crash happened when a 2013 Harley Davidson motorcycle was headed east on Garden Valley Road, where it entered a curve and went off the roadway and into a ditch.

The motorcycle overturned, causing the driver and passenger to be ejected, authorities said.
Speed is not believed to be a factor in the crash. Neither the driver or passenger were wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

The crash investigation is ongoing by the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Crash Investigation Unit.

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