Peoria County, IL – A Mapleton man was found dead after his car overturned in the woods in Peoria County on Tuesday morning. Deputies from the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 10300 block of Smithville Road at approximately 11:26 a.m. following a report of damage to a culvert.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered the vehicle overturned at least 40 yards from the roadway, deep within a wooded area. After cutting through thick brush to reach the scene, they found the 31-year-old man unresponsive inside the car. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, speed is believed to be a major factor in the crash. Local residents reported hearing the sound of a tree falling around 9:00 p.m. Monday, leading authorities to suspect the accident may have occurred that night. The Logan-Trivoli Fire Department also responded to assist at the scene, but no other occupants were found in the vehicle.
The Peoria County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation. The driver’s name will be released at a later time by the Peoria County Coroner.
