Multiple Dead, Including Children, After Car Crashes Into After-School Camp in Chatham, Illinois

Four people were killed, including children, after a vehicle drove into an after-school camp in Chatham, Illinois, police reported on April 28. The Illinois State Police is working with the Chatham Police Department in investigating the fatal crash. Officers responded to a call at 3:20 p.m. from the YNOT After School Camp in Chatham after the car drove into the east side of the building and struck multiple people, according to the press release. The vehicle continued to go through the building, before exiting through the west wall of the structure. At this time, officers confirmed the four fatalities are believed to be between the ages of 4-18 years. “Three individuals were struck outside the building and one inside. Several additional individuals have been transferred to local area hospitals by ambulance and one by a life flight helicopter,” the release states. The driver, who was by themselves in the car, was uninjured and was also transported to an area hospital for evaluation. A reason for the accident has not been shared. This is an active investigation and no additional information was given at this time. In a statement posted on their Facebook, Chatham Police Department asked for prayers for their community. “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,” the statement reads. Additionally, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also spoke out regarding the incident on X. “My administration is closely monitoring the crash in Chatham. As we continue to learn more, please follow the guidance of all local authorities,” he wrote, adding, “Let’s wrap our arms around the community tonight as we receive updates on the situation.” State Sen. Doris Turner, whose district is near Chatham, also wrote that she was “heartbroken” over the news. "When we drop our kids off in the morning, we should always have the utmost belief that they will come home safely at the end of the day. For some families, that belief was shaken today following the tragedy at Y.N.O.T. in Chatham," Turner wrote on Facebook, adding that there are no words to explain what the community is feeling and will feel for days, weeks and months to come.