Dane Placko
Dane Placko is a general assignment reporter at FOX 32 News and enjoys covering a variety of stories, from spot news to sports to features.
Placko was born in Chicago in the Rogers Park neighborhood. He moved with his family first to Arlington Heights and then Palatine, where he attended both Fremd and Palatine High Schools. He majored in history at the University of Illinois at Urbana, then began his career in broadcasting at WHO Radio and T.V. in Des Moines.
After a brief stop in Milwaukee, Placko returned home to Chicago and FOX 32 News in 1992, where he has received Emmy awards for spot news reporting and writing.
An avid gardener, Placko lives on the city's Northeast Side, and is best known among his colleagues as a long-suffering Cubs fan (not anymore, though!).
The latest from Dane Placko
Chicago area launches campaign to improve recycling rates, tackle confusion
There’s a new push to boost recycling rates across the Chicago area. But there’s also a lot of new confusion about what can be recycled and what must be thrown away.
State agency warns Mayor Henyard in letter that Dolton police chief not legally qualified to serve
The state agency that regulates local law enforcement in Illinois says Mayor Tiffany Henyard's handpicked police chief is not legally qualified to run the department or serve as an officer.
Wall Street soars on Trump victory as analysts debate economic impact
It was a monster day on Wall Street as the Dow reacted to the election of Donald Trump by climbing 1,508 points. The tech-heavy NASDAQ Index was up by more 544 points.
Disgruntled ex-employee kills two in shooting at Navy Pier, Chicago police say
Two men were killed Tuesday afternoon in a shooting by a disgruntled ex-employee at Navy Pier, according to Chicago police.
Tent cities continue to grow along Chicago's lakefront, sparking concerns for residents
DuSable Lake Shore Drive is often praised as one of the most beautiful roadways in the world.
Mike Madigan trial: Former aide testifies, reveals speaker’s control
Federal prosecutors in the corruption trial of Michael Madigan are continuing to paint the former Illinois House speaker as a powerful – and sometimes vindictive – leader during his reign.
Field Museum unlocks ancient secrets with high-tech scans of mummy collection
“Mummy" is the word at the Field Museum this Halloween, which is using some new technology to unlock the secrets of the dead.
Former ComEd executive testifies about pressure from Madigan’s confidant in law firm hiring deal
Federal prosecutors continue to build their case that Mike Madigan traded his power to score jobs and contracts for his political supporters.
Stroke survivor Maria Odenkirk to take part in Willis Tower climb with support from actor brother
Climbing the Willis Tower is no easy feat, but next week a Chicago-area woman who suffered a stroke six years ago plans to take on the challenge to raise money and awareness for stroke survivors.
Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard faces eviction, landlord speaks out: 'I have nowhere else to turn'
Controversial Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard has a new battle on her hands.