Tragedy struck late Friday night on the Dan Ryan Expressway as a stalled vehicle was hit from behind by a semi-truck, resulting in one fatality and leaving a passenger injured. The Illinois State Police were called to the scene on the northbound lanes at 59th Street around 11:35 p.m., as reported by Fox32 Chicago. A Nissan Sedan, which had become immobile in traffic, was struck by the semi, unable to stop in time to avoid the collision.
The driver of the Nissan Sedan was rushed to a nearby hospital, where they succumbed to their injuries, the Illinois State Police confirmed. A passenger was also taken to the hospital with injuries; further details on their condition, however, have not been released. According to a WGN News eyewitness account, firefighters had to free both a woman and a young child from the wreckage of the car. "I saw them pull a baby from the vehicle, as well," said Lisa Queen, a witness at a nearby gas station.
The impact of the crash and ensuing response necessitated the closure of all northbound lanes of I-94, creating substantial traffic disruption throughout the early morning. Detours were put in place at 63rd Street as crews worked at the site of the incident. The roadway was reopened to traffic around 4:15 a.m. on Saturday, the Illinois State Police has stated.
Investigations into the crash are ongoing and, as of now, it is not clear if any citations will be issued in connection with the event. The identity of the deceased has not been disclosed by law enforcement, as the state police have not released any information regarding any possible criminal charges or the specific circumstances leading to the vehicle stalling.
