Boone County, IL – A 78-year-old Rockford man was killed Thursday afternoon after a head-on collision on Bypass Route 20 in Boone County, authorities confirmed.
According to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 3:43 p.m. on January 14, 2026, near the intersection of Bypass Route 20 and Shattuck Road. Responders from Boone County District #2 Fire and MD-1 assisted at the scene.
Preliminary investigation indicates that a 2001 Volvo semi-truck was traveling eastbound on Bypass 20, while a 2015 Nissan van was headed westbound. Deputies said the Nissan crossed the center line and struck the semi head-on.
The driver of the van, Richard J. Todd, 78, of Rockford, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the semi sustained minor injuries, officials said.
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Team, with assistance from the Boone County Coroner, continues to investigate the cause of the crash.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office at 815-544-2144 or Crime Stoppers at 815-547-7867.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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