Cherry Valley, IL (May 2, 2025) – A fatal crash involving a semi-truck and a passenger van shut down northbound I-39 for several hours Friday, leaving one person dead and another hospitalized with injuries.
Accident Details: According to the Illinois State Police, the collision occurred just before 11 a.m. on northbound I-39, north of Baxter Road. A semi-truck struck a passenger van, resulting in the death of one person in the van. Another individual was transported to the hospital with injuries, though their condition has not been disclosed. Authorities have not yet released the name of the deceased.
Video from the scene appeared to show additional vehicles with visible damage. Police have not confirmed whether those vehicles were part of the initial crash or were involved in separate incidents.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: When a fatal crash involves a commercial truck, investigators must determine how the collision happened and who may be at fault. That includes examining the speed and positioning of the vehicles, the road conditions, drivers’ behavior, truck maintenance records, truck driver hour logs, and any available footage or eyewitness accounts.
Depending on the facts uncovered, the family of the person who died may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Similarly, the injured person may be able to file a personal injury claim.
I extend my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the person who lost their life in this crash. I also hope for the full recovery of the injured person.
Source: WIFR