Fatal Crash Under Investigation at Chatham After-School Camp

The Illinois State Police (ISP), in coordination with the Chatham Police Department, is investigating a fatal crash that occurred Monday afternoon at an after-school camp in Chatham.

At approximately 3:20 p.m., officers responded to the YNOT After School Camp, located at 301 Breckenridge Road, where a vehicle drove into the east side of the building. According to ISP, the vehicle struck multiple individuals outside the building before continuing through the structure and exiting through the west wall.

Authorities confirmed four fatalities, involving individuals believed to be between the ages of 4 and 18. Three of the victims were struck outside the building, and one was struck inside. Several additional individuals were transported to area hospitals by ambulance, and one person was airlifted by helicopter.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle has been identified as 44-year-old Marianne Akers of Chatham. She was uninjured and transported to an area hospital for evaluation. Akers is not currently in custody, and toxicology results are pending. Authorities say the cause of the crash remains under investigation, though it does not appear to be a targeted act.

The Sangamon County Coroner, Jim Allmon, confirmed the deaths of four female students who were pronounced deceased at the scene. Identification of the deceased is pending next of kin notification. Post-mortem procedures are scheduled to take place tomorrow.

Responding agencies included the ISP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit, ISP patrol, crime scene services, and criminal investigations, along with the Chatham Police Department, Chatham Fire Department, Springfield Police Department, Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, Sangamon County Coroner’s Office, and other first responders.

ISP stated the investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be released when available.