A devastating multi-vehicle crash in Kane County on Sunday night claimed the lives of two men and left several others injured, including one driver who was airlifted to the hospital with severe burns. The collision occurred after a driver swerved to avoid hitting a deer, triggering a deadly chain reaction that has left the community in mourning.
The victims have been identified as 31-year-old Erick Garcia-Porcayo and 25-year-old Rosalio Porcayo-Porcayo. Both were pronounced dead at the scene near the intersection of Plank Road and Switzer Road, just south of Pingree Grove. The crash happened around 9:43 p.m., prompting a swift response from deputies and emergency personnel.
According to investigators, the crash began when 18-year-old Vance Peterson, driving a red Ford F150 westbound on Plank Road, swerved to avoid a deer in the road. This sudden maneuver caused the truck to veer into oncoming traffic. Peterson’s vehicle narrowly missed a landscape truck but collided head-on with a white GMC Sierra. The impact caused the F150 to spin, and it was then struck by a red Dodge Ram. The force of the collision caused the Ford to catch fire, trapping Peterson inside.
First responders worked quickly to rescue Peterson, breaking the driver’s side window to free him. He suffered severe burns and multiple fractures and was airlifted to Loyola Hospital for treatment. The driver of the GMC Sierra, 22-year-old Yahir Porcayo-Porcayo, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove. Tragically, his two passengers, Erick Garcia-Porcayo and Rosalio Porcayo-Porcayo, did not survive.
The condition of the Dodge Ram’s sole occupant, a 30-year-old man, remains unclear as authorities have not released details about his injuries. The Kane County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation to determine all contributing factors, including whether speed, impairment, or other elements played a role in the crash.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of sudden swerves on the road, especially at high speeds. Law enforcement officials often advise drivers to brake firmly and stay in their lane rather than swerving, which can lead to losing control or crossing into oncoming traffic.
The loss of Erick Garcia-Porcayo and Rosalio Porcayo-Porcayo has left their families and the community devastated. As the investigation continues, friends and loved ones are left to grieve their untimely deaths and reflect on the fragility of life.