Powerful car explosion in Machesney Park sparks investigation
MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. (WTVO) — A car explosion in Machesney Park on Hackberry Lane is under investigation by the State Fire Marshal after a gas can inside the vehicle exploded just before 2 PM Friday. The explosion was powerful enough to blow the doors off the car, and a...
‘I feel very, very good about our chances’: Rockford Ravens on brink of playoff...
The Rockford Ravens men’s rugby is one win away from advancing to the playoffs after 12 years. “We are very confident; I feel very, very good about our chances. The guys have put their heart and soul out here on the pitch. It’s been a great honor for me to be their coach,” said head […]
Lane closures scheduled for I-90 near Kishwaukee River bridge
WINNEBAGO COUNTY, Ill. (WIFR) - Lane closures are set to begin next week on I-90 near the Kishwaukee River for bridge repair work. Signs will be placed in advance to alert drivers of the upcoming work zone. Traffic on eastbound I-90 will be reduced to two lanes and shifted onto...
Steak fry casino night, pork chop drive-thru among 10 things to do in the...
The weekend brings Pretzel City Brewfest and World War II Days, along with fundraisers, live music and more to the Freeport area. Tuck Everlasting: The Musical What: What would you do if you had all eternity? Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence, but not until she...
Loves Park Elementary evacuated due to fire alarm Friday morning
Students and staff at Loves Park Elementary were evacuated Friday morning after a rooftop machine caused smoke that activated a fire alarm.
Ghost Tours, Pub Crawls & Cemetery Walks in Rockford
Haunted Rockford’s October 2025 lineup brings ghost-tours, cemetery walks, paranormal gear demos, authors sharing spooky tales, and a haunted pub crawl, just make sure to reserve tickets early before they vanish.
Rock House Kids hosts annual fundraiser under new name
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Rock House Kids’ annual fundraiser for Rockford youth in need kicks off its 26th year with a new name. What was known as Streets and Sweets for 25 years is now called RHK Real. With the new name comes the same mission of providing Rockford...
Illinois woman aims for pumpkin-growing record with massive crop
STILLMAN VALLEY, Ill. (WTVO) — A Stillman Valley woman grew giant pumpkins all while chasing a record-breaking title. “I love it, I never thought I’d be the pumpkin lady,” said Theresa Miller. Theresa has been growing pumpkins as a hobby since she became an empty nester. “I started growing pumpkins about 17 years...
Freeport pastors plead for community’s help repairing historic church
FREEPORT, Ill. (WIFR) - Flenard and Brenda Council put themselves into their work. “It’s a joy in giving,” says Flenard. “As Jesus says, better to give than to receive.”. The husband and wife serve as pastors of True Vine Worship Center in Freeport. They purchased the 133-year-old...
Illinois Neighborhood Named One of the Coolest in the World
Avondale, Chicago ranks #5 on Time Out’s list of coolest neighborhoods, blending Polish and Latino roots with bars, music, and food—just a quick trip from Rockford.

















