CHATHAM, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois State Police (ISP) are continuing their investigation into a devastating crash that killed four children and injured six others at an after-school center in Chatham on Monday afternoon.
At approximately 3:20 p.m. on April 28, a vehicle left the roadway for unknown reasons and careened through a field before crashing into the east side of the YNOT After School Camp at 301 Breckenridge Road. The vehicle tore through the building, striking multiple individuals inside before exiting through the opposite wall.
Authorities confirmed the deaths of four young individuals: two 7-year-olds, an 8-year-old, and an 18-year-old. Six additional children sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals; one child remains in critical condition.
The driver, identified as the sole occupant of the vehicle, was not injured but was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. Toxicology results are pending. Investigators have stated that there is currently no indication that this was a targeted act.
Emergency response teams from ISP’s traffic crash reconstruction unit, crime scene services, patrol, and criminal investigations, as well as multiple local agencies including the Chatham Police and Fire Departments, Springfield Police, and the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, were dispatched to the scene.
“This is a tragic event for the entire Chatham community,” ISP said in a statement, offering condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones.
As of now, the investigation remains active and further details have not been released.