Illinois Tragedy: Four Children Dead, Others Injured as Car Plows Through After-School Camp in Chatham

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Monday afternoon in Chatham, Illinois, when a vehicle slammed into the YNOT After School Camp, killing at least four young people and injuring several others.

According to the Illinois State Police, the incident occurred at approximately 3:20 p.m. at the facility located at 301 Breckenridge Road, just south of Springfield.

The vehicle reportedly struck multiple children outside the building before crashing through the east wall, continuing through the interior, and exiting through the west wall.

Authorities confirmed that the deceased victims were between the ages of 4 and 18. Three of them were hit outside the building, while one was inside at the time of the crash. Emergency crews rushed several others to nearby hospitals, with some airlifted due to the severity of their injuries.

As of 7:15 p.m., investigators from the Illinois State Police and Chatham Police Department remained on scene, working to determine the circumstances that led to the devastating crash. The identity of the driver, who was uninjured and taken to a hospital for evaluation, has not been released.

In response to the crash, local officials closed traffic on Walnut Street between Park Street and Gordon Drive until further notice.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and police have not indicated whether it was accidental or intentional. State and local officials have asked the public for patience and prayers as the community processes the shocking event.

Governor JB Pritzker and State Senator Doris Turner have both expressed sorrow and pledged state support. “Let’s wrap our arms around this community tonight,” the governor wrote on social media.

YNOT After School Camp, known for offering enrichment programs like hiking and outdoor activities for children, has temporarily suspended operations.