The Illinois State Police offered new information and details regarding the fatal crash in Chatham this past Monday in a Thursday press conference.
They noted that the investigation remains ongoing and that the ISP will continue to work with the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office. ISP reported that the initial toxicology test results of the woman involved in the incident are negative for alcohol and controlled substances.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly at the ISP Press Conference concerning the April 28 fatal crash in Chatham (Credit: Steve Bridge)
As for the events of this past Monday, at approximately 3:20 p.m. on April 28, 2025, a vehicle left the road, traveled through a field and into the east side of the YNOT After School Camp located at 301 Breckenridge Road in Chatham. The vehicle traveled through the building striking numerous individuals before exiting the other side. Four individuals were killed in the crash, 7-year-old Alma Buhnerkempe, 7-year-old Kathryn Corley, 8-year-old Ainsley Johnson, and 18-year-old Rylee Britton. Of the six additional children injured in the crash and taken to an area hospital, two have been released.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, 44-year-old Marianne Akers of Chatham, was uninjured and transported to an area hospital for evaluation and released; the investigation is ongoing and no charges have been filed.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly expressed his anguish at the circumstances and assured the public that the ISP would collect all the facts possible during this investigation.
“This horrific crash is heartbreaking for Chatham and all of Illinois. Every possible law enforcement resource is being brought to bear on this investigation, as we relentlessly, but meticulously seek the facts surrounding this complex, and gut wrenching tragedy.”
Personnel from the ISP Division of Patrol, the ISP Division of Criminal Investigation, and the ISP Division of Forensic Services, including Crime Scene and Traffic Crash Reconstruction, responded directly to the scene and have been investigating non-stop since the crash.
