An early morning incident on the Tri-State Tollway in Hinsdale has claimed the life of a disabled motorist. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the accident occurred around 4:20 a.m., when a person outside their disabled passenger vehicle was struck by a semi-truck on Interstate 294 near the Hinsdale Oasis ramp. The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was declared dead at the scene by Illinois State Police.
As a result of the tragedy, state troopers were forced to quickly shut down one lane and the ramp to the Hinsdale Oasis, directing traffic to flow in just two lanes. The accident has sparked significant congestion on the tollway, with motorists advised to seek alternate routes. ABC 7 Chicago reported the southbound lanes and the ramp were closed around 5:19 a.m., as evidenced by toll camera footage.
No further details about the cause of the crash or the identity of the deceased have been released as the situation is still under investigation. State police have not yet provided any information on the condition of the semi-truck driver or if there are any impending charges.
Traffic delays continued to affect the Tri-State Tollway for several hours following the collision, and state police are requesting that drivers approaching the area continue to exercise caution.
