Crime & Safety
New Lenox, IL I-80 Hit-and-Run Leaves Passenger Critically Hurt
New Lenox, IL – Illinois State Police are asking the public for help identifying a driver who fled after striking a passenger standing outside a vehicle along Interstate 80 in Will County, leaving the
By Nolan Pierce · 2026-11-07T18:09:37.077Z
New Lenox, IL – Illinois State Police are asking the public for help identifying a driver who fled after striking a passenger standing outside a vehicle along Interstate 80 in Will County, leaving the victim with serious, life threatening injuries.
According to Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1, the hit and run occurred Sunday, Nov. 1, between 3:10 a.m. and 3:19 a.m. on eastbound I 80 near Maple Road in New Lenox, southwest of Chicago.
Passenger Struck After Initial Crash
Investigators say the incident began with a two vehicle property damage crash along the interstate.
Following the initial collision, a passenger exited one of the involved vehicles onto the right shoulder to assess the damage.
While standing outside, the passenger was struck by another passing vehicle.
The driver allegedly fled the scene without stopping.
The injured passenger was transported to an area hospital with serious, life threatening injuries. Police have not provided an updated condition or released the victim's identity.
Police Searching for Sedan
Illinois State Police describe the vehicle involved in the hit and run as a sedan that may be white, silver or black.
Investigators have not released a confirmed make, model or license plate number.
Authorities are asking motorists who traveled eastbound on I 80 near Maple Road during the early morning hours of November 1 to review any available dashcam footage.
How to Help Investigators
Anyone who witnessed the collision, noticed a vehicle matching the description or has relevant video evidence is encouraged to contact Illinois State Police.
Tips can be submitted by calling 847 294 4400 or emailing ISP.CrimeTips@Illinois.gov .
Witnesses may remain anonymous.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police have not announced an arrest in the information released.
Authorities are urging anyone with information, even seemingly minor details, to come forward as investigators work to identify the driver responsible.