CHATHAM, Ill. – Three children and another person were killed after a vehicle crashed into an after-school care building in downstate Chatham, just south of Springfield, on Monday afternoon.
What we know:
The crash occurred around 3:20 p.m. at the YNOT building in the 300 block of Breckenridge Road, which houses the after-school camp, according to Illinois State Police.
The vehicle went through the building, killing four people. The victims were two 7-year-olds, an 8-year-old and an 18-year-old, ISP said. Their identities have not yet been released.
Three of the victims were outside the building at the time of the crash and a fourth was inside.
Six other children were injured in the crash and taken to local hospitals. One was hospitalized via a helicopter and remains in critical condition, police said.
The driver of the vehicle was not injured. Police said toxicology reports are pending.
Springfield fire and police crews were also deployed to the scene to help.
Chatham Village Trustee Kristen Chiaro posted on her Facebook page that counseling will be available at Glenwod Middle School for all Ball-Chatham School District students and staff starting on Tuesday.
“My heart is with the families, loved ones and all affected by the horrific tragedy that struck Chatham today,” Chiaro wrote.
What we don’t know:
It was unclear exactly why the car crashed into the building. Police said it does not appear to be a targeted attack.
What they’re saying:
The Chatham Police Department posted on its Facebook page after the crash.
“If you believe in the power of prayer, please take a moment to pray right now for the entire Chatham community. A terrible tragedy has occurred here that has affected all of us.”
Gov. JB Pritzker released a statement in reaction to the tragic crash:
“I am horrified and deeply saddened by the deaths of children and numerous injuries in Chatham this afternoon. Our community lost a group of bright and innocent young people with their whole lives ahead of them.
“Parents said goodbye to their kids this morning not knowing it would be the last time. My heart is heavy for these families and the unimaginable grief they’re experiencing – something that no parent should ever have to endure.”
