Available 
Chicago, IL (February 16, 2026) – A hit-and-run crash with reported injuries was dispatched early Sunday morning at the intersection of W Van Buren St and S Damen Ave on Chicago’s West Side, according to public dispatch audio.
Key Details
- Location: W Van Buren St & S Damen Ave, Chicago
- Reported: February 15 at 3:26 a.m.
- Type: Hit-and-run crash with injuries
- Vehicles Involved: At least two vehicles
- Injuries: Injuries reported
- Status: Suspect vehicle fled; investigation ongoing
What We Know So Far
- Dispatch audio indicated officers were sent to Van Buren St and Damen Ave for an auto accident involving injuries.
- The caller reported that her vehicle was struck and the other driver left the scene.
- Fire and EMS units were also dispatched to assist.
- The incident was handled through Chicago Police Department Zone 03.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The number of people injured
- The severity of the reported injuries
- A description of the fleeing vehicle
- Whether any arrests have been made
Local Context
The intersection of W Van Buren St and S Damen Ave is located in a busy West Side corridor that connects residential areas with commercial and industrial zones. Van Buren St serves as a key east–west route, while Damen Ave carries steady north–south traffic across multiple neighborhoods. Intersections in this area often experience overnight traffic, including vehicles traveling between downtown and nearby communities. When crashes occur at crossings like Van Buren and Damen, especially involving a hit-and-run, officers may secure the scene to assist injured individuals and gather information from witnesses before reopening the roadway fully.
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.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving the scene of a crash can lead to serious legal consequences.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, the surrounding area, and any debris.
- Write down any details you remember about the other vehicle while they are still fresh in your mind.
FAQ
Q: What should drivers do after a hit-and-run crash?
A: Drivers should call 911, remain at the scene, seek medical attention if needed, and provide officers with as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle.
Q: Why do intersection crashes happen so quickly?
A: Intersections involve multiple traffic movements, including turning vehicles and cross traffic, which can increase the risk of sudden collisions if drivers misjudge timing or fail to yield.
Q: Can an investigation continue after the scene is cleared?
A: Yes. Officers may review surveillance footage, analyze vehicle damage, and follow up on witness statements even after traffic has resumed.
