CHATHAM, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois State Police have confirmed that Marianne Akers, the 44-year-old driver involved in Monday’s fatal crash at the YNOT After School Camp, was not under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances at the time of the incident.
ISP Director Brendan Kelly shared the toxicology findings during a Thursday press conference, stating that Akers submitted blood and urine samples after being transported to a hospital following the crash. She was later released and has not been charged with any crime. Kelly also revealed that Akers is a former Illinois State Police employee, though he declined to say what position she held. She left the department seven years ago and is now regarded as an ordinary citizen.
The crash, which occurred when a vehicle veered off Breckenridge Road and slammed into the building housing the after-school program, killed four girls and injured six others. Kelly stressed that the investigation remains active, and a medical emergency is being considered as a possible cause, though no definitive conclusion has been reached. Vehicle data is still being analyzed.
The results of the ongoing investigation will be forwarded to the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office for further review once complete.