PEORIA, Peoria County, Ill., Oct. 23, 2026 — One man was taken to a hospital on Thursday morning, October 22, after a crash between a car and a semi-truck in Peoria. Peoria Police said the crash happened around 9:15 a.m. near Knoxville Avenue and Wilhelm Road.
The vehicle caught fire after the crash, according to the Peoria Fire Department, which said crews were dispatched to a vehicle fire at the scene. Firefighters extinguished the flames and stabilized the tractor-trailer before working to free the driver.
Crews used spreaders and cutters to remove the car's doors and roof to extricate the man, the fire department said. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment. His condition has not been released.
The crash remains under investigation. No additional details, including what led up to the collision, have been released.
We hope everyone who was hurt makes a full and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Peoria, IL
This truck crash happened at Knoxville Avenue and Wilhelm Road in Peoria, IL. We cover crashes across Peoria County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Peoria County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an underride crash?
An underride crash happens when a smaller vehicle slides partly or fully beneath a truck's trailer during a collision, sometimes because the trailer sits higher than the car's bumper and crumple zones.
What typically causes large-truck crashes?
Common factors include driver fatigue, following too closely, blind spots, mechanical failure, and sudden stops or lane changes by nearby vehicles. Investigators typically review all of these before determining a cause.
Does driver fatigue play a role in truck crashes?
Yes. Long hours on the road can slow reaction times for both truck and car drivers, and fatigue is a factor regulators and investigators routinely examine after serious crashes.
How can drivers share the road safely with semis?
Give trucks extra space, especially near the back and sides where blind spots are largest, avoid cutting in front of them, and expect longer stopping distances.
What to Do After a Truck Crash in Peoria, IL
If you're involved in a crash with a semi, call 911 right away and stay as far from traffic as safely possible while waiting for help. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical provider, since some injuries from a truck collision don't show symptoms immediately. Take photos of the scene if you're able, note the names of any responding agencies, and ask how to obtain the official crash report once it's filed. Peoria Police and fire crews typically document these calls in detail, which can help later with insurance or medical follow-up.
