Chicago, IL (January 28, 2026) – A four-vehicle collision during Wednesday morning’s rush hour sent two individuals to the hospital and caused major traffic delays on the inbound Kennedy Expressway. The crash occurred at approximately 6:25 a.m. in the southbound lanes of Interstate 90 near Division Street. Illinois State Police confirmed that two people sustained injuries and were transported for medical treatment. While the left three lanes were closed temporarily for emergency response, all lanes reopened around 6:55 a.m. Motorists experienced residual delays for some time following the crash.
Key Details
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Where: I-90 SB at Division St
- Type: Four-Vehicle Crash With Injuries
- Reported: January 27, at 6:25 AM
- Injuries: Confirmed
- Responding Agency: Illinois State Police
What We Know So Far
- Four vehicles were involved in a crash on I-90 near Division St.
- Two people were injured and transported to nearby hospitals.
- The left three lanes were closed and reopened by 6:55 a.m.
- Traffic delays extended up to 35 minutes during the commute.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The current condition of the two injured individuals.
- The events leading up to the four-car collision.
- Whether speed, distraction, or weather played a role.
- If any citations or further investigations are pending.
Local Context
The inbound Kennedy Expressway near Division Street is a heavily traveled corridor on Chicago’s North Side, particularly during peak commute hours. Multi-vehicle crashes in this area can result in significant delays due to limited room for rerouting and high traffic volume. Wednesday’s incident required quick lane closures to allow medical personnel and responders to assist the injured and clear the scene. Although the site was reopened within 30 minutes, residual traffic delays continued for some time. Officials have not yet shared additional information about the circumstances of the collision.
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 before the police arrive can create complications later.
- If witnesses are present, collect names and contact information when possible.
- Save any dashcam footage immediately so it is not overwritten.
FAQ
Q: Why do highway crashes often lead to traffic backups?
A: High-speed routes like expressways see dense traffic, and even short-term lane closures can quickly create congestion during peak hours.
Q: How long does it usually take for an accident report to become available?
A: In most cases, crash reports are completed within a few days but can take longer depending on the complexity of the investigation.
Q: Who decides whether citations are issued after a crash?
A: The investigating agency—typically state or local police—reviews evidence and witness statements to determine if any violations occurred that warrant citations.