Crime & Safety
Champaign County, IL Crash Leaves 13-Year-Old Critically Injured
Rantoul, IL – A 13 year old pedestrian is fighting critical injuries after being struck by a pickup truck Sunday evening in Rantoul, prompting emergency medical treatment and a transfer to a Chicago m
By Wesley Grant · 2026-10-26T15:50:19.790Z
Rantoul, IL – A 13 year old pedestrian is fighting critical injuries after being struck by a pickup truck Sunday evening in Rantoul, prompting emergency medical treatment and a transfer to a Chicago medical facility.
According to the Rantoul Police Department in a media release issued Monday morning, October 26, officers responded around 6:29 p.m. Sunday to the intersection of Grove Avenue and Lon Drive following reports that a juvenile had been struck by a vehicle.
When officers arrived, they located a 13 year old who had been hit by a Dodge Ram pickup truck. Police said the child was conscious and alert when emergency responders reached the scene.
The juvenile was initially transported to Carle Hospital before being transferred to a medical facility in Chicago for further treatment. Authorities described the injuries as critical.
A preliminary investigation determined that the Dodge Ram was traveling eastbound on Grove Avenue toward Lon Drive when it struck the child crossing the roadway.
Investigators also determined that the juvenile had activated the pedestrian crossing lights, which were illuminated when the collision occurred.
Police reported no observed indicators of driver impairment during their investigation.
However, the driver was issued a citation for failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway.
The Rantoul Police Department expressed support for the injured child and family, offering wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
Officials also thanked the Champaign County Sheriff 's Office, Carle Ambulance, Carle Hospital, Rantoul Fire Department and community members who assisted at the scene.
The department's statement was issued at 7:33 a.m. Monday by Deputy Chief Christina Reifsteck.
Authorities did not provide an updated medical condition beyond the initial report of critical injuries.
The incident highlights pedestrian safety concerns at illuminated crossings, particularly during evening hours when visibility can be reduced.