Old Shawneetown, IL (March 7, 2026) – A driver lost their life on Friday evening following a collision involving a pickup truck and a semi-truck near Old Shawneetown in southern Illinois.
According to the Illinois State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 6:25 p.m. on March 6 at the intersection of Illinois Route 13 and Old Shawneetown Road near Old Shawneetown, Illinois.
Troopers from ISP Troop 10 responded to the scene after receiving reports of a two-vehicle crash involving a pickup truck and a truck tractor semi-trailer.
Preliminary information indicates that the pickup truck was traveling south on Old Shawneetown Road when the semi-truck struck the pickup on the driver’s side.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and attempted to assist those involved. However, officials confirmed that the driver of the pickup truck died from injuries sustained in the collision.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim pending notification of family members.
The crash remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police.
We extend our thoughts to the family and loved ones of the individual who lost their life in this tragic accident.
Why Collisions with Semi-Trucks Often Result in Severe Outcomes
Crashes involving passenger vehicles and large commercial trucks frequently lead to serious or fatal injuries due to the significant difference in size and weight between the vehicles. Semi-trucks take longer to slow or stop, especially at highway speeds.
When a smaller vehicle enters the path of a large truck, the impact can cause extensive damage, particularly if the collision occurs on the passenger vehicle’s side. Side-impact crashes often expose occupants to a higher risk of severe injury because there is less structural protection compared to front or rear collisions.
Investigators reviewing truck-related crashes typically examine factors such as vehicle movements, right-of-way conditions at intersections, driver visibility, and roadway design. These elements help determine how the crash occurred and whether any contributing circumstances played a role.
