Kankakee County, IL (February 13, 2026) – Two children were hospitalized in critical condition after a pickup truck crashed into a creek late Thursday night along Illinois Route 17, according to the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded just after 11:20 p.m. to the area of 3700 E IL 17 after receiving an automated crash alert from an iPhone. When they arrived, authorities located a pickup truck partially submerged in nearly two feet of partially frozen creek water.
Inside the vehicle were a 58-year-old woman and two children. The children were transported to a nearby hospital, where they were listed in critical condition. The driver was also taken to a hospital for evaluation.
After receiving medical treatment, the driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, the sheriff’s office said. The investigation remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with the injured children and their loved ones during this difficult time.
Key Details
- Location: 3700 E IL 17, Kankakee County
- Reported: Thursday, February 12 at 11:23 p.m.
- Type: Pickup truck crashed into a creek
- Injuries: Two children are in critical condition
- Arrest: Driver taken into custody on a DUI charge
- Agency: Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office
What We Know So Far
- Deputies responded after an automated crash alert was triggered.
- The pickup truck was found partially submerged in nearly two feet of partially frozen water.
- Two children were transported to a hospital in critical condition.
- The driver was later arrested on suspicion of DUI.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The ages of the children involved.
- The events that led up to the truck entering the creek.
- Whether additional charges may be filed.
Local Context
The stretch of IL 17 near the 3700 block in Kankakee County includes rural roadway segments bordered by drainage areas and creeks, particularly outside more densely developed areas. Late-night crashes in this part of the county can present added challenges, especially during winter conditions when water and surrounding surfaces may be partially frozen. When deputies respond to incidents along IL 17, they often must secure both the roadway and nearby embankments while coordinating rescue efforts. A vehicle entering a creek along this corridor can require careful extraction procedures before traffic fully returns to normal.
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 it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Monitor how you feel after the crash. Some injuries can appear hours or days later.
FAQ
Q: Why are details sometimes limited right after a crash?
A: Authorities often release only confirmed information in the early stages while they continue investigating and verifying details from those involved.
Q: Why are freeway and rural highway crashes considered especially hazardous?
A: Higher travel speeds, limited lighting, and roadside features such as ditches or waterways can increase the risk of serious injuries in these settings.
Q: What does it mean when a crash is under investigation?
A: It means law enforcement is reviewing evidence, speaking with witnesses, and examining roadway conditions to determine exactly how the incident occurred.
