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Chicago, IL (February 19, 2026) – Three people were killed, and three others were critically injured early on Thursday morning in a crash along the Bishop Ford Freeway in the Pullman neighborhood. Illinois State Police said the collision happened around 1:15 a.m. on Interstate 94 near 111th Street.
Key Details
- Reported: February 19 at 1:15 a.m.
- Location: I-94 near 111th St, Pullman neighborhood, Chicago
- Vehicles Involved: Single vehicle
- Fatalities: Three passengers pronounced dead
- Injuries: Three individuals were transported in critical condition
- Road Impact: All northbound lanes shut down, traffic diverted to 115th St
- Investigating Agency: Illinois State Police
What We Know So Far
- Troopers said the crash involved one vehicle that overturned on the Bishop Ford Freeway.
- The collision occurred near 111th St in the Pullman area.
- Two passengers were pronounced dead at the scene, and a third later died from injuries.
- Three other occupants were transported to area hospitals in critical condition.
- Family members identified the victims as members of the Empire Dance Team.
- Northbound lanes of I-94 were closed, and traffic was diverted onto 115th St.
- Family and friends gathered near the crash site later in the morning.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The exact cause of the crash has not been determined.
- Officials have not confirmed whether other vehicles were involved.
- It remains unclear how long the freeway closures will remain in place.
Local Context
The Bishop Ford Fwy through Pullman is a major corridor on Chicago’s South Side, connecting neighborhoods to downtown and surrounding suburbs. A rollover crash along I-94 near 111th St can quickly bring traffic to a standstill, particularly during early morning hours when roadways begin to fill with commuters. When fatal crashes occur, Illinois State Police typically secure the scene, divert traffic, and carefully document vehicle positions and roadway conditions before reopening lanes. With all northbound lanes closed and traffic rerouted to 115th St, delays were expected while investigators worked to determine what led to the overturn.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- Write down the time, location, and what you observed while the details are still fresh.
- If your vehicle is disabled, arrange safe towing and avoid standing near active traffic lanes.
FAQ
Q: Why are details sometimes limited right after a crash?
A: Investigators often release preliminary information while they gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and confirm key facts before providing a full update.
Q: Why are freeway crashes considered especially hazardous?
A: Highway speeds and traffic volume can increase the severity of injuries, and rollover crashes may involve complex vehicle dynamics and lane closures.
Q: What does it mean when a crash is under investigation?
A: It means authorities are reviewing evidence, examining the scene, and determining the factors that contributed to the collision before finalizing their report.
Source
Read the original coverage here: original report.
