Marengo, IL (January 8, 2026) – A serious collision involving a semi-tractor-trailer and a garbage truck resulted in three individuals being hospitalized and prompted the closure of Route 23 near Collins Rd in unincorporated Marengo early Wednesday morning.
Emergency crews from the Marengo Fire and Rescue Districts and McHenry County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the scene shortly after 7:00 a.m. on January 7. Upon arrival, responders found two heavily damaged vehicles and multiple injured individuals requiring care. Initial reports suggested that one person may have been ejected, though authorities later confirmed that no ejection occurred.
Due to the severity of the crash, a medical helicopter was placed on standby but was later canceled. Three ambulances were sent to the scene to transport the injured. Route 23 was shut down between Kishwaukee Valley Rd and River Rd while crews worked to assist victims and investigate the circumstances of the crash.
According to preliminary findings, a 2016 International semi-tractor-trailer was traveling northbound on Route 23 south of Collins Rd when the collision occurred. Further details regarding the cause remain under review by investigators with the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident.
