Tragic Incident in Oak Park: Driver Commits Suicide Following Collision with Pace Bus and Multiple Vehicles at Harlem and Lake

In a tragic sequence of events that unfolded Friday morning in Oak Park, Illinois, a driver ended their life after causing a series of collisions that resulted in injuries to over a dozen people. The incident, which occurred around 9 a.m., has left the community in shock.

According to officials, the driver was traveling south on Harlem Avenue when they ignored a red light at the intersection with Lake Street. This reckless action set off a chain reaction, ultimately leading to a chaotic scene on the busy road.

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As the vehicle approached a pedestrian crossing, the presence of a pedestrian forced the driver to veer into oncoming traffic. The sudden maneuver caused collisions with several vehicles, including a Pace bus, adding to the morning’s turmoil.

In a distressing turn of events, the driver then produced a firearm and fatally shot themselves. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but the driver was declared dead at the scene.

In the aftermath, at least 14 individuals involved in the crash were transported to nearby hospitals. Fortunately, medical personnel have indicated that all are expected to recover, providing a small measure of relief amid the devastation.

Reginald Featherston had been waiting at the bus stop just moments before the collision.

“I’m glad I wasn’t crossing that intersection,” Featherston said.

Luis Acosta’s cousin and another person were in a box van hit by the SUV. He says the men were heading to a construction job when the unthinkable happened.

“He told me the guy was coming fast, and he crossed and hit the car and the van, then he shot himself,” Acosta said.

Morning commuters were left in shock.

“I was devastated. I couldn’t believe it happened. I couldn’t believe that he ran the light,” said Mary Partee, who lives in the neighborhood.

“Thirty-three years I’ve been living around here and never really seen anything like this,” said Amanda Healy.

The incident impacted the following CTA bus routes:

• #90 Harlem buses are temporarily rerouted in both directions near Harlem/Lake, due to street blockage near Harlem/Lake.




• Southbound#90 Harlem buses will operate via Harlem, Chicago Avenue, Kenilworth, Lake, Maple and North Boulevard.




• Northbound #90Harlem buses will operate via North Boulevard, Forest Avenue, Lake, Kenilworth, Chicago Avenue, Harlem and over regular route.

Authorities say the incident is still under investigation.

Officials did not immediately provide further information.

This is a developing story. Check back with ABC7 for updates.

If you are experiencing suicidal, substance use or other mental health crises please call or text the new three digit code at 988. You will reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also go to 988lifeline.org or dial the current toll free number 800-273-8255 [TALK].