Four Killed, Several Injured as Vehicle Crashes into Illinois After-School Camp

Police are on scene of a crash outside YNOT Outdoors at 301 North Breckenridge on Monday, April 28, 2025, in Chatham. Police said four people died in the crash

Four people, including children, were killed and several others were injured after a vehicle crashed into the YNOT After School Camp building in Chatham, Illinois, on April 28, according to authorities. The tragic incident occurred around 3:20 p.m. local time when the vehicle drove into the east side of the building, striking multiple people inside before exiting through the western side, Illinois State Police reported.

The victims, believed to be between the ages of 4 and 18, included three individuals who were struck outside the building and one person who was hit inside. Several injured individuals were transported to local hospitals by ambulance, while one was airlifted by helicopter. The driver of the vehicle, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured and taken to a local hospital for evaluation.

At least four people died on Monday after a car crashed into an Illinois after-school day care, according to police

Chatham Police Deputy Chief Scott Tarter announced that Chatham Baptist Church, located near the after-school camp, has been designated as the reunification point for families. Traffic on nearby streets has been closed until further notice as authorities continue their investigation.

The Illinois State Police is collaborating with the Chatham Police Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed his deep sorrow in a public statement, emphasizing the heartbreaking loss the community has suffered and affirming that his office stands ready to provide support.

The YNot program building in Chatham where the fatal wreck occurred.

"I am horrified and deeply saddened by the deaths of children and numerous injuries in Chatham this afternoon," Governor Pritzker said. "Parents said goodbye to their kids this morning not knowing it would be the last time. My heart is heavy for these families and the unimaginable grief they're experiencing."

State Senator Doris Turner, whose district includes Chatham, also shared her condolences, calling the incident heartbreaking and assuring the community of her office’s support during the difficult time.

The suspected driver was detained at the scene of the crash.

The Chatham Police Department described the crash as a "terrible tragedy" that has profoundly impacted the entire community. They urged everyone to "take a moment to pray right now for the entire Chatham community."

YNOT Outdoors, founded in 2002 by a couple from Springfield, operates facilities in Chatham for summer camps and after-school programs. The YNOT After School program provides three-hour, post-dismissal latch-key care for students from several school districts, including Ball-Chatham.