Four girls, as young as 4 years old, were killed when a driver plowed through an Illinois after-school building Monday afternoon, authorities said.
The driver allegedly crashed an SUV into the side of the YNOT after-school camp building in Chatham and drove right through it, smashing out the other side at around 3:20 p.m., Illinois State Police said.
Four female students — believed to be young kids and teens — were killed, and several others were rushed to area hospitals, according to state cops and the Sangamon County Coroner’s Office.
The fatal victims ranged in age from 4 to 18 years old and were pronounced dead at the scene, according to state police. Three were struck by the vehicle outside the building, while one was hit inside.
At least four people died on Monday after a car crashed into an Illinois after-school day care, according to police. FirstAlert4
The YNot program building in Chatham where the fatal wreck occurred. Google Maps
The suspected driver was detained at the scene of the crash. Aarika Jo/FacebookThe ages and conditions of the wounded victims were not immediately known, but one individual was airlifted, cops said.
The driver, who was not injured, was taken into custody at the scene and transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
The investigation is ongoing.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said his office is closely monitoring the incident.
“I am horrified and deeply saddened by the deaths of children and numerous injuries in Chatham this afternoon,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Our community lost a group of bright and innocent young people with their whole lives ahead of them.”
“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,” he added.
“MK and I extend our prayers and deepest condolences to everyone impacted by this unspeakable tragedy.
