GENEVA, Ill. (WLS) — A tragic incident unfolded in the west suburbs on Saturday night as a man faces DUI charges following a catastrophic head-on collision that claimed the life of a woman and left her son with critical injuries, according to police reports.
The collision prompted immediate action from the Geneva police and fire departments, who swiftly arrived on the scene along the 1000-block of South Randall Road just shy of 9:15 p.m.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
Authorities revealed that Christian Mares, a 40-year-old resident of Aurora, was at the helm of a blue 2013 Chevrolet Camaro. Travelling northbound on Randall Road, Mares allegedly crossed the double yellow line, colliding with a southbound red 2019 Nissan Versa.
The devastating impact proved fatal for the 71-year-old driver of the Nissan, a resident of Geneva, who was declared dead at the scene. Her identity has not yet been disclosed by officials.
Meanwhile, the driver’s 26-year-old son, who was also in the vehicle, sustained serious injuries. He was first transported to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva and subsequently airlifted to John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital in Chicago for advanced care.
Mares was treated for injuries at Delnor Hospital before being taken to the Kane County Jail. He is facing several charges, including Reckless Homicide, Aggravated Driving Under the Influence, and Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.
Investigators shut down Randall between Fargo and Kelsinger for several hours. The roadway reopened just after 3 a.m.
Geneva police, the Kane County Accident Reconstruction Team, the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Kane County Coroner’s Office are investigating.
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.