Pulaski County, IL (June 21, 2026) – One person was airlifted to a hospital following a three-vehicle collision on Interstate 57 in Pulaski County on Thursday night, June 18.
According to state police, the crash occurred around 9:39 p.m., along the southbound lanes of I-57 near milepost 8. The chain-reaction roadway incident involved three vehicles, including a semitruck.
Traffic along southbound I-57 was diverted at milepost 16 while crews worked to clear the roadway and assist those involved. One lane reopened around 4:39 a.m. Friday morning, and all lanes were fully reopened shortly after 6 a.m.
The extent of the airlifted person’s injuries was not released. Additional information about the accident had not been made public as of this report. Officials are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the roadway collision.
We hope the person taken to the hospital makes a full and speedy recovery.
Why Air Medical Transport May Be Used After Highway Crashes
Air medical transport is frequently used after serious highway collisions when rapid access to specialized medical care is needed. Helicopters can help reduce travel time to trauma centers, particularly when a crash occurs in a rural area or when road conditions could delay ground transportation.
The decision to request an air ambulance is typically based on factors such as the severity of injuries, distance to the nearest appropriate hospital, and the patient’s immediate medical needs. In many cases, medical teams begin treatment before and during transport to help stabilize the person being treated.
Major highway crashes can also lead to extended lane closures while vehicles are removed and the roadway is cleared. These closures help create a safer environment for cleanup efforts and allow traffic to resume once travel lanes have been inspected and deemed safe for use.
