Arlington Heights, IL – A fatal traffic crash late Monday evening on Rand Road has claimed the life of a 21-year-old Des Plaines man. The accident occurred near the intersection of Rand Road and Euclid Avenue, involving a purple 2016 Dodge Challenger and a white 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe.
The Arlington Heights Police Department, alongside Mount Prospect and Prospect Heights Police, responded to the scene around 10 p.m. Monday. The Dodge Challenger, traveling northwest on Rand Road, collided head-on with the Hyundai after crossing into the oncoming lane.
First responders found the Dodge Challenger’s driver deceased. The 18-year-old Arlington Heights driver of the Hyundai Santa Fe sustained serious injuries. Emergency personnel transported him to a Level I trauma center at Lutheran General Hospital.
According to Arlington Heights Police, Rand Road remained closed for about six hours during the investigation. Authorities are working with the Major Case Assistance Team’s specialized unit to determine the crash’s cause, including potential drug or alcohol involvement.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting further investigations. The final report, including toxicology, is expected within 6-8 weeks. The police are pursuing legal access to data stored within the Dodge Challenger for additional clues.
