Urbana, IL (January 19, 2026) – Two individuals were hospitalized following a crash involving a Champaign County Sheriff’s Office K9 squad vehicle in the 3200 block of East University Ave in Urbana.
At approximately 8:54 p.m., authorities say the marked K9 unit was traveling westbound when a black Mini Cooper heading eastbound made a sudden left turn northbound in front of the squad car, resulting in a collision. The impact left the Mini Cooper’s occupants injured, prompting immediate aid from the deputy at the scene.
Emergency medical teams arrived shortly after and transported both the driver and front-seat passenger of the Mini Cooper to a nearby hospital for treatment. According to police, both individuals are expected to recover.
While the deputy was unharmed, the police service dog inside the squad vehicle was taken to the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine Emergency Room as a precaution. Fortunately, the K9 did not suffer any serious injuries and was released following evaluation.
The driver of the Mini Cooper, identified as 29-year-old Gretchen Raila of Champaign, faces multiple citations, including aggravated driving under the influence, operating an uninsured vehicle, and failure to yield while turning left.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Our thoughts are with those recovering, and we commend the swift actions of all first responders on scene.
