Gurnee, IL (May 23, 2026) – One person died on Saturday morning, May 23, following a two-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck on northbound Interstate 94 near Illinois Route 120 in the north suburbs.
Illinois State Police said troopers responded to the crash just before 5 a.m. on the Tri-State Tollway corridor south of Gurnee. Two people were taken to a local hospital after the collision. Emergency units confirmed that one of the injured individuals later died, though the identity of the person who died had not been released.
Three lanes were closed for several hours while emergency units responded and investigators worked at the scene. The roadway was fully reopened shortly after 10:45 a.m. The circumstances leading up to the crash have not yet been determined.
We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the person who lost their life.
Why Semi-Truck Highway Crashes Lead to Extended Closures
Crashes involving commercial trucks on major highways can lead to significant disruptions due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. When multiple lanes are affected, traffic must usually be rerouted or slowed for extended periods.
Investigators typically examine speed, lane position, and braking activity when reconstructing highway truck collisions. They may also review roadway markings and vehicle damage to understand how the impact occurred.
Because these crashes frequently involve serious injuries, emergency units may need additional time on scene to provide care and coordinate vehicle removal. Even after lanes reopen, congestion can continue as traffic gradually returns to normal flow.
