Highland Park, IL (May 17, 2026) – A toddler and an elderly woman died following a two-vehicle collision. Emergency units responded to Route 41 and Park Avenue West at approximately 3:05 p.m. on May 16 after reports of a crash with injuries and trapped occupants.

Authorities said the collision involved a Toyota minivan and a Hyundai sedan. Investigators determined that one vehicle was traveling northbound on Route 41 when it collided with another vehicle attempting to travel southbound from westbound Park Avenue West.

Emergency responders arrived to find heavy damage at the scene and at least one person trapped inside a vehicle. Officials also reported that two victims were unconscious and not breathing when crews reached the crash site. Bystanders reportedly began CPR on a child before paramedics arrived.

Three victims were transported to nearby hospitals following the collision. Two people who were taken to Endeavor Health Highland Park Hospital were later pronounced dead. The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified the victims as a 1-year-old child and a 73-year-old woman from Wilmette.

A third victim suffered moderate injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening and was transported for additional treatment. 

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision.

We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased victims and our thoughts to the injured person recovering from the crash.

What Legal Options May Be Available After a Fatal Car Accident in Illinois?

After a fatal car accident in Illinois, families often have questions about what legal and financial options may be available while they cope with the loss of a loved one. Wrongful death claims may arise when investigators believe negligence or unsafe driving behavior contributed to the collision. These cases can involve compensation related to funeral expenses, medical costs incurred before death, loss of financial support, and other damages recognized under Illinois law.

Serious intersection crashes frequently require detailed investigations because several factors may contribute to how the accident occurred. Police and crash reconstruction teams may review traffic signals, vehicle speeds, roadway markings, witness statements, and physical evidence from the scene. In collisions involving severe injuries or fatalities, investigators may continue gathering evidence for an extended period before conclusions are released.

Families may also face insurance issues, hospital billing questions, and requests for official records in the days following the crash. Keeping organized documentation, including medical records, crash reports, insurance communication, and expense information, can help make the process easier to manage. In accidents involving multiple victims, insurance claims and liability reviews can become especially complex.

Illinois follows a fault-based system for motor vehicle accidents, meaning liability may affect how compensation claims are handled. Insurance companies may review all available evidence before determining responsibility for damages connected to the collision. Because these cases often involve significant losses, understanding the legal process can help families make informed decisions moving forward.

At The Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick, we understand the profound physical, emotional, and financial toll that serious accidents take on victims and their families. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys are committed to representing individuals injured in motor vehicle crashes throughout Lake County.

If you need legal help, contact The Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick today at (847) 807-8695 to schedule a free consultation. We are here to help you seek justice and rebuild your future.

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.