Geneva, Illinois – A high-speed crash that killed two Geneva residents is prompting felony charges against a St. Charles driver.
According to the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office, Charles T. Rodgers, 20, has been charged with reckless homicide and multiple related offenses following a Sept. 5, 2025 crash at Bricher Road and Fisher Drive.
Prosecutors allege Rodgers was driving a BMW X3 westbound around 1:40 p.m. when he struck a Toyota Corolla making a turn. The impact sent the Corolla into a wooded area, where it caught fire. Dennis White, 85, and Ritsuko White, 88, both of Geneva, died from their injuries.
Authorities allege Rodgers was traveling up to 119 mph in a 45-mph residential zone and failed to slow before the crash. Instead of braking, he allegedly accelerated and attempted to steer around the turning vehicle before striking it head-on.
Rodgers is also charged with unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle, aggravated reckless driving, and speeding. Prosecutors allege the BMW had been taken from a St. Charles dealership where Rodgers was employed and that he was not legally allowed to possess it.
Two passengers in the BMW suffered fractures, while a third was treated and released at the scene.
Rodgers appeared in court April 17 for a detention hearing. A judge denied prosecutors’ request to hold him in custody, ordering pretrial release with electronic monitoring and restrictions, including no driving.
His next court appearance is scheduled for May 20 at the Kane County Judicial Center.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about extreme speeding in suburban neighborhoods, especially for young drivers and daily commuters.
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