Chicago, IL (April 20, 2025) – A high-speed collision involving multiple vehicles in the Austin neighborhood early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two drivers and left a passenger critically injured. The crash occurred just after 2 a.m. at the intersection of Central Ave and Augusta Blvd.
First responders, including paramedics and fire crews, worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. According to Chicago police, officers had observed a sedan traveling at a high speed moments before it was struck by another vehicle that ran a red light at the intersection. The eastbound sedan on Augusta Blvd disregarded the signal and collided violently with the other vehicle, triggering a chain reaction that also impacted a nearby minivan.
The force of the crash caused both sedans to come to rest in the front yards of nearby homes. The driver of the speeding vehicle, a 22-year-old man, was transported to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the red-light-running sedan, a 36-year-old man, was also pronounced dead after being taken to a nearby medical center.
A woman riding as a passenger in the second vehicle was hospitalized in critical condition, suffering multiple injuries. The driver of the minivan declined medical treatment at the scene, according to police reports.
Chicago Police Department has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly collision.
Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this devastating time.
Reckless Driving and Red-Light Collisions in Chicago
Chicago’s busy intersections have long been the scene of dangerous crashes, particularly those linked to excessive speed and red-light violations. Central Ave and Augusta Blvd, situated in the city’s West Side Austin neighborhood, is a key arterial route where incidents like this often highlight the dangers of aggressive driving in residential and urban zones.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, red-light running and speeding are among the top causes of fatal urban crashes across the state. When combined, these behaviors create a high potential for catastrophic impacts, as seen in this early morning tragedy. Chicago officials have implemented several red-light cameras and speed enforcement zones in recent years, but this incident underscores the ongoing risk.
Victims and their families often face not only emotional trauma but also medical expenses, loss of income, and legal challenges. Survivors, such as the critically injured passenger in this crash, may need long-term care and support in the aftermath of such violent events.
For families impacted by deadly collisions, it is vital to understand available legal options and pursue justice and compensation where applicable.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
