4 killed after car crashes into Illinois child care facility, police say

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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:

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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.

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Three of the victims were outside the building at the time of the crash and a fourth was inside.

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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.

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The driver of the vehicle was not injured. Police said toxicology reports are pending.

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Springfield fire and police crews were also deployed to the scene to help.

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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.

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“My heart is with the families, loved ones and all affected by the horrific tragedy that struck Chatham today,” Chiaro wrote.

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What we don’t know:

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It was unclear exactly why the car crashed into the building. Police said it does not appear to be a targeted attack.

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What they’re saying:

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The Chatham Police Department posted on its Facebook page after the crash.

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“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.”

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Gov. JB Pritzker released a statement in reaction to the tragic crash:

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“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.

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“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.”

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