Gages Lake Man Slashes Victim's Stomach Open: Police

LAKE COUNTY, IL — A 23-year-old man faces charges for allegations he slashed a 24-year-old Round Lake Beach man's stomach open following a fight Saturday morning in Gages Lake.

The Round Lake Beach man was initially listed in critical condition, and he underwent surgery following the attack, which happened about 9:20 a.m. Saturday, authorities said. As of Monday, he was in stable condition and was improving, said Christopher Covelli, deputy chief with the Lake County Sheriff Office.

Anthony Osmena, of the 17800 block of West Big Oaks Road in Gages Lake, is accused of slashing the Round Lake Beach man's stomach open on the side of the road in the area of Eastwood Avenue and Chippewa Road in Gages Lake, according to a news release from the Lake County Sheriff's Office.

The two initially got into an argument while they were riding together in a car, according to police. The driver pulled over to drop Osmena off and both Osmena and the Round Lake Beach man got out of the car, continuing to argue, when Osmena got out a knife and slashed the man's stomach open, authorities said.

Authorities are not sure at this point what the two got into an argument about, Covelli said.

Police said the wound was so severe the man's intestinal tract fell out from the slash wound. The driver immediately drove the Round Lake Beach man to the hospital, where he underwent surgery.

Osmena was taken into custody at his home. He has been charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, aggravated battery in a public way and unlawful use of a weapon.

He is expected in court Monday morning for his initial court appearance.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.