Four Dead After Car Crashes Through Illinois Daycare: Everything We Know

Chatham Police told Illinois' WCIA News that four people were killed and six others injured Monday after a car crashed through an after-school building. Chatham is located just three miles south of Springfield, Illinois.Newsweek reached out to the Chatham Police Department via email on Monday for comment and confirmation.The ContextThe crash happened at YNOT (Youth Needing Other Things) Outdoors, a facility designed as an after-school and summer program provider for families in central Illinois. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it has built a reputation for providing "safe, fun, active and stimulating" environments for children when school is not in session, according to the program's official website.YNOT has facilities at 301 North Breckenridge, in Chatham, for Summer Camp drop-off and for After School.What To KnowDeputy Chief Scott Tarter confirmed to WCIA News that four individuals died in the incident, while six others were transported to hospitals, including one by life flight. Authorities have not yet released the ages of the victims.The Springfield Fire Department has dispatched multiple engines and personnel to assist the Chatham Fire Department, which is leading the emergency response.Chatham Baptist Church has been designated as the reunification point for families with children at the facility. The YNOT Outdoors program typically provides three-hour, post-dismissal care for school-age children from the Ball-Chatham School District and Pleasant Plains Unit School District.What People Are SayingIllinois Gov. JB Pritzker released this statement on X, formerly Twitter, following the incident: "My administration is closely monitoring the crash in Chatham. As we continue to learn more, please follow the guidance of all local authorities. Let's wrap our arms around the community tonight as we receive updates on the situation."Chatham Village Trustee Kristen Chiaro posted on Facebook: "There is an emergency at YNOT Outdoors in Chatham. The Chatham Baptist Church will be the reunification point for families who have children at YNOT. Prayers to all."What Happens NextAuthorities will continue their investigation to determine the cause of the crash and release more information about the victims once families have been notified.This story is developing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.Update 4/28/25, 7:35 p.m. ET: This story was updated with additional information.