Tragic Incident on I-294: Tollway Worker Fatality and Two Injured as Golf Rd Reopens

A tragic incident occurred on Saturday morning in Des Plaines, Illinois, when a tollway worker lost his life and two others sustained injuries after being hit on Interstate 294, according to the Illinois State Police.

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The unfortunate event took place in the southbound lanes of I-294, in the vicinity of Devon Avenue. The workers were engaged in repairing potholes when a vehicle struck them, police officials reported.

All three individuals involved in the accident were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

Tragically, one of the workers succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, as confirmed by the Illinois State Police.

One of the workers died at the hospital, ISP said.

ISP said all lanes of I-294 were temporarily shut down at Golf Road. All lanes have since reopened.

Governor JB Pritzker said in a statement:: “Heartbreaking news this morning as three tollway workers were struck in Des Plaines while working.“

“May their memory be a blessing, and may we come together to pray for the injured.”

“Remember to slow down and keep our workers safe.”

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Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse released the following statement:

“The Illinois Tollway Board and all Tollway staff are devastated by the loss of one of our Illinois Tollway roadway maintenance workers.

This equipment operator/laborer has worked with the Illinois Tollway for the past two years and was a respected and valued member of the Tollway.

Our equipment operator/laborers work on the front line of our 294-mile roadway system, performing duties that included maintaining safe roadway conditions and assisting drivers who were stranded or needed help. He was carrying out these duties when he tragically lost his life on the Tri-State Tollway (I-294).

Roadway workers, police officers and everyday motorists are too often hurt, injured or worse because drivers are not following the Move Over Law. The Tollway reminds everyone to slow down and change lanes safely when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights on the road.

We offer our deepest condolences and our full support to family, loved ones and friends for this heartbreaking loss.”