SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A 14-year-old girl from Chicago tragically died following a multi-vehicle crash on I-55 southbound near Springfield on Saturday, December 13.
According to Illinois State Police (ISP) Troop 7, the crash occurred in the southbound lanes near I-72/Clearlake Avenue exit. The Sangamon County Coroner confirmed that the girl was a passenger in one of the vehicles involved and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details regarding the number of vehicles involved, or whether there were additional injuries or fatalities, have not yet been confirmed. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash.
As a result of the incident, southbound traffic is being diverted at Exit 100 (Sangamon Avenue). The roadway is expected to remain closed for several hours.
The crash occurred amid snowy conditions across central Illinois, which significantly impacted travel. Law enforcement and county officials have repeatedly urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel due to hazardous road conditions.
The Sangamon County Coroner’s Office and Illinois State Police are continuing their investigation and will release further updates as more information becomes available.