Gurnee, IL - Multiple-Vehicle Hit-And-Run Crashes on Stearns School Rd

Gurnee, IL (June 19, 2025) – A series of hit-and-run collisions occurred on June 17 when deputies from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to crashes involving a fleeing driver in the unincorporated Gurnee area. Authorities were first alerted just before 6 p.m., and it all began near Grandwood Drive at a gas station.

Moments later, deputies located the suspect’s vehicle and activated their lights in an attempt to stop him. Instead, the 34‑year‑old driver sped off, striking two vehicles at the intersection of Stearns School Road and Hunt Club Road. One of those drivers suffered minor injuries.

The dangerous pursuit continued as the suspect barreled through intersections on multiple roadways. Traffic momentarily halted the vehicle, and officers briefly attempted to detain him, but as soon as cars cleared, the driver fled again. The chase then headed eastward before turning south onto Route 21.

As the driver ran a red light at Route 21 and Gages Lake Road, he t‑boned a vehicle making a left turn. Four people inside – including two children – sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Shortly after, the suspect struck another northbound vehicle, injuring that driver as well.

The chase finally ended when a deputy rammed the suspect’s vehicle to disable it. Emergency medical personnel treated the injured on scene before transporting them, including the suspect, to a nearby hospital.

Charges are pending, and both the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team and Technical Crash Investigations Team are leading the investigation.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Car Accidents in Illinois

Car crashes in Illinois take an alarming toll every year. In 2023, the state recorded over 360,000 traffic accidents, which led to more than 900 fatalities and over 120,000 individuals injured. Distracted driving and speeding are frequently cited causes, especially in suburban and urban areas. Teen drivers aged 16–19 are at a greater risk, contributing to a disproportionate share of serious accidents statewide. These figures emphasize the need for vigilance on the road and legal guidance when crashes happen.

With that in mind, here are some significant topics crash survivors should consider:

• Children and car crash injuries – Young passengers are especially vulnerable, often suffering whiplash, broken bones, or head trauma. Even injuries that seem mild can have lasting effects on growth and development. For families, ensuring prompt medical evaluations and long-term care plans is critical.

• Liability in multi-vehicle incidents – Proving fault becomes more complicated when multiple cars are involved in successive collisions. Investigators use police reports, crash reconstruction, and traffic signals to build the sequence of events. A skilled attorney can help piece together evidence to hold responsible parties accountable.

Call our Gurnee car accident attorneys immediately if you or a loved one was hurt. A car accident attorney at the Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick can handle obtaining police records, reviewing medical bills, and dealing with insurance adjusters. It’s vital to act quickly to preserve crucial evidence such as crash footage, witness statements, and vehicle damage assessments. Our Gurnee attorneys will guide you through Illinois’s legal procedures, explaining your rights and options every step of the way.

Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick offers free consultations. Our caring Gurnee legal team has helped numerous crash victims secure compensation for medical care, property damage, lost income, and emotional trauma. You pay nothing unless we win your case. Call our experienced Gurnee car accident attorneys now at 847‑807‑8695 to take the first step toward justice and peace of mind.

Disclaimer: Accident reports on this site are sourced from police and fire departments, news outlets, social media, and eyewitnesses. The Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick has not independently verified this information. To report an error or request a removal, please contact us directly.

Note: We urge everyone to drive safely and stay alert to prevent accidents. This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. It is not a solicitation for legal services. Images used are for illustration only and do not show the actual accident.