Three Children and Teen Killed in Chatham Car Crash

CHATHAM, Ill. — Three children and a teenager were killed, and several others were injured when a car crashed through a building during an after-school program on Monday afternoon. Authorities stated that the incident, which occurred around 4 p.m., likely was not a targeted attack.

The vehicle, driven by a 44-year-old woman identified as Marianne Akers, left the roadway, traversed a field, and collided with the side of the Youth Needing Other Things Outdoors (YNOT) building. In the aftermath, two 7-year-olds, an 8-year-old, and an 18-year-old were confirmed dead, while six additional children were hospitalized, with one in critical condition.

Akers was not injured but was taken to the hospital for evaluation; toxicology reports are pending, and she was not in custody as of Tuesday morning. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, according to Illinois State Police.

Witnesses reported that security footage captured the vehicle approaching at a high speed without attempting to alter its trajectory before hitting the building. After striking the structure, the car continued to a gravel road, ultimately crashing into a power pole and a ballfield fence.

Governor JB Pritzker expressed his condolences, emphasizing the profound grief the families are experiencing. The Chatham Police Department has called for prayers, acknowledging the devastating impact of the tragedy on the community.

The investigation is ongoing as local authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.