Lemont, IL (August 25, 2025) – A deadly wrong-way crash occurred early Sunday morning on Interstate 355 southbound at the Des Plaines River bridge in Lemont, leaving one driver dead and another seriously injured. According to Illinois State Police, the incident was reported around 1:30 a.m. when a driver traveling northbound in the southbound lanes collided head-on with another vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and confirmed that the wrong-way driver, a man from Morris, Illinois, died at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle, a man from Lockport, Illinois, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment.
The identities of those involved have not yet been released, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Our deepest condolences are extended to the family of the deceased and thoughts remain with the injured driver as he recovers.
Wrong-Way Collisions in Illinois
Wrong-way crashes are among the most devastating types of roadway accidents, often resulting in fatalities or severe injuries due to the force of head-on impact. Incidents like the one on I-355 highlight the ongoing dangers posed by drivers entering highways in the wrong direction, whether due to impairment, confusion, or other contributing factors.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, wrong-way collisions represent a small percentage of total crashes but carry a disproportionately high risk of fatal outcomes. Major corridors such as I-355 are particularly susceptible due to their speed limits and heavy traffic volumes, making any head-on impact especially catastrophic.
For those injured in wrong-way crashes, recovery often involves extensive medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and financial strain from missed work and hospital bills. Families who lose loved ones in these tragic incidents face not only grief but also the challenge of navigating legal and insurance processes.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by a wrong-way crash in Illinois, resources and support are available. Contact Local Accident Reports for guidance and assistance in moving forward after a serious highway collision.
