Joliet, IL (January 13, 2025) – A crash early Sunday morning at the intersection of Chicago St and Benton St left a passenger critically injured and sparked a hit-and-run investigation. Joliet police and fire crews responded to the scene at approximately 2:56 a.m.
Authorities reported that a Chevrolet Aveo, driven by a 34-year-old Joliet man, and a Saturn Aurora were both traveling southbound on Chicago St when the Saturn rear-ended the Chevrolet. The impact caused the Chevy to roll over near the southwest corner of the intersection.
The driver of the Chevrolet suffered injuries and declined medical treatment, but his 43-year-old passenger had to be extricated by the Joliet Fire Department. The passenger was taken to Ascension St. Joseph Medical Center in critical but stable condition before being transferred to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood for further treatment.
The driver of the Saturn fled the scene on foot and had not been located as of Sunday evening. Police are investigating the possibility that the individuals involved in the crash had been in an earlier conflict at Los Gavenos Bar on Hickory St.
Our thoughts are with the injured passenger, and we hope for his swift recovery.
Hit-and-Run Collisions in Illinois
Hit-and-run crashes are a serious issue in Illinois, often leaving victims with significant injuries and little recourse until the responsible party is identified. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, such incidents frequently involve reckless driving, impaired drivers, or conflicts that escalate on the road.
This crash underscores the importance of staying at the scene of an accident and cooperating with authorities to ensure the safety of all involved.
If you are involved in or witness a hit-and-run crash, prioritize safety and immediately contact emergency services. Provide as much detail as possible about the fleeing vehicle, including its make, model, color, and direction of travel.
Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor, to rule out hidden complications. Consulting with legal or insurance professionals can help you understand your options for pursuing compensation and holding the responsible party accountable.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.