Plainfield's Biggest Stories Of 2025: Here Are The 10 Top Headlines

PLAINFIELD, IL — The most-read Plainfield Patch stories in 2025 were marked by more business news, as new development comes to town, and several tragic crime stories involving children.

This year, Plainfield residents continued to look forward to the opening of Woodman's, which was reported to be bigger than Costco, and Illinois's first Zaxby's restaurant.

Plainfield Patch also covered the trial of Plainfield landlord Joseph Czuba, who was sentenced for the death of 6-year-old Wadee Alfayoumi and the battering of the boy's mother. Two months later, the 73-year-old convict died in prison.

These are the top 10 stories of 2025 on Plainfield Patch, listed in no particular order:

Former Plainfield Walmart Building Sells: 'There's A Great Marketplace For What They Are Bringing'

Buyers are planning to open a "home decor showroom and warehouse" in the place of the former Walmart, Plainfield Mayor John Argoudelis said.

Plainfield Woodman's Will Be Bigger Than Costco, Cheaper Than Most Grocery Stores: Report

The new store will be part retail and part warehouse, significantly surpassing Costco in size, according to a report.

• More: When Will Plainfield's Woodman's Grocery Store Open?

Zaxby's Is Opening 1st IL Restaurant In Plainfield

The fast-casual restaurant, born in Georgia and specializing in fried chicken, is expected to open its first Illinois location soon.

Plainfield Hate Crime Killer Dead 2 Months After Sentencing: Reports

The 73-year-old was found guilty of killing 6-year-old Wadee Alfayoumi and seriously wounding his mother, Hanan Shaheen.

• More: Hate Crime Child Murderer Learns His Sentence
• Monument Will Be Dedicated To Boy, 6, Fatally Stabbed In Plainfield Hate Crime

13-Year-Old Motorcyclist Seriously Hurt After Crashing Into Car: Plainfield Police

The boy suffered life-threatening injuries after he was found lying in an intersection following the Thursday afternoon crash, police said.

Red Robin To Permanently Close Plainfield Restaurant

Fans of Red Robin's gourmet burgers and bottomless fries had until Aug. 17 to enjoy them in Plainfield.

Skateboarder Killed In Heggs Road Crash IDed: Plainfield Police Update

Plainfield police revealed that the driver "did not see" the skateboarder, who was riding in a lane of traffic.

This Suburb Was Named 'Biggest Boomtown' In IL

Plainfield is one of the country's 49 boomtowns, which are seeing positive economic activity and population growth.

• More: Special Census To 'Make Plainfield Count' Begins

50-Acre Fire Breaks Out In Plainfield

Firefighters responded in January to a nearly 50-acre blaze that broke out in a field of cut-down corn stubble.

Toddler Beaten By Mom's Boyfriend In Critical Condition: Police

The girl suffered a fractured skull and brain bleed, according to police, who charged her mother's 21-year-old boyfriend with battery.