A car accident occurred around 4:48 PM on Friday, December 7 at 1835 East County Road 1450 North, just east of Villa Grove. A Mercury sedan, carrying three people, rear-ended a piece of construction equipment called a skid-steer, which is used to clean up debris on the highway. Two people were killed and one badly injured as a result of the accident.
Later Friday evening, the Facebook page of Heritage School District announced the first victim of the crash as John Jones, 75, of Villa Grove. Jones was driving when the accident occurred and was taken to Carle Hospital by ambulance. He was pronounced dead at the hospital according to the sheriff’s department. Jones was a Spanish teacher for many years at Heritage High School, where he was known for being able to connect with all of his students. Heritage District provided counselors and social workers on the Monday after the accident. His wife, Shirley Jones, 77, was badly injured in the accident and remains in the hospital.
On Saturday morning, Douglas County Coroner Joe Victor identified the second victim as Kristine Trudeau, 66, of Villa Grove. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Trudeau was the coordinator for the town’s peace meal program. She and Jones were neighbors and close friends, both being remembered for their dedication to service and kind hearts, as they were always giving back to others within their community.
The three were driving to visit their pastor’s mother, who just recently had a stroke. Pastor Duane Piercy stated, “Their last act of giving on this Earth was helping others.”
Heritage High School honored the victims of the accident on Tuesday, pausing for a moment of silence during the high school basketball game.
Unfortunately, car accidents like this occur every day, causing not only physical damage but also emotional suffering for all parties involved. It is important that you seek legal help in order to handle your situation correctly. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation from the party responsible to help you deal with your injuries and your emotional suffering.The car accident attorneys at Spiros Law, P.C. have experience, compassion, and will work tirelessly to get you the compensation that you need and deserve. Contact our offices at (217) 328-2828 for a free consultation.
Request A Free Consultation
