SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Tragedy struck in central Illinois when a car plowed through a building utilized for an afternoon youth camp, resulting in the deaths of three children and a teenager. According to Illinois State Police, the 44-year-old driver of the vehicle tested negative for drugs and alcohol and might have experienced a medical emergency prior to the incident, as stated on Thursday.
At a news conference, Illinois State Police Director mentioned that no decisions have been made regarding filing charges against the driver who is currently not in custody. Although there is some evidence suggesting a medical emergency may have occurred, the findings are inconclusive, and the investigation is still underway.
The grievous event unfolded on Monday when the car veered off the road in Chatham, colliding with a building used by Youth Needing Other Things Outdoors (YNOT). The vehicle traveled through the structure, causing fatalities before emerging on the opposite side. In addition to the four lives lost, six other children were injured, with four still receiving medical care and one in critical condition.
The young victims were identified as Rylee Britton, 18, from Springfield, and Ainsley Johnson, 8, Kathryn Corley, 7, and Alma Buhnerkempe, 7, all residents of Chatham, which lies on the outskirts of Springfield. The driver escaped injury but underwent a hospital evaluation. Tests carried out on blood and urine samples showed no traces of drugs or alcohol.
Kelly indicated that some preliminary evidence points toward the possibility of a medical emergency being a factor in the crash. However, the investigation is ongoing and will continue until every angle is thoroughly examined. Kelly refrained from providing details about the suspected medical issue or any evidence linking it to the crash. He also did not comment on the state of the driver when emergency personnel arrived on the scene.
YNOT Outdoors founder Jamie Loftus shared that security footage revealed the vehicle traveled a significant distance from the road to the building, navigating a field, street, sidewalk, and parking lot, all seemingly without attempting to change direction. Ultimately, the vehicle crossed a gravel road, impacting a pole and a fence.
Details regarding the vehicle’s speed or the timeline for concluding the investigation were not disclosed by Kelly. Responsibility for any potential charges will lie with the Sangamon County state’s attorney, once the investigation concludes.