PULASKI, Pulaski County, Ill., Oct. 26, 2026 — One person died Monday morning, October 26, in a fiery crash on northbound Interstate 57 in Pulaski County, according to Illinois State Police. The crash happened near mile marker 11 just before 7 a.m., troopers said.
The vehicle caught fire after the crash, Illinois State Police said. Responding troopers found one person dead at the scene.
Northbound lanes near mile marker 11 were affected while crews worked the scene.
The cause remains under investigation. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
More on Crashes in Pulaski, IL
This fatal crash happened on Interstate 57 in Pulaski, IL. We cover crashes across Pulaski County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Pulaski County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do fatal crashes most often happen?
A large share occur on higher-speed roads like interstates and rural highways, where impact speeds tend to be greater and help can take longer to arrive.
What makes a crash more likely to be fatal?
Speed, lack of seat belt use, impaired or distracted driving, and road or weather conditions all raise the odds that a crash results in a death rather than an injury.
How does speed affect whether someone survives a crash?
Higher speeds mean more force at impact, which increases the chance of serious injury and reduces the time a driver has to react or avoid a collision.
Why does wearing a seat belt matter so much?
A seat belt keeps occupants from being thrown within or out of the vehicle during a crash, which substantially improves the odds of walking away from a serious collision.
What to Do After a Fiery Crash in Pulaski, Illinois
If you're involved in or witness a vehicle fire after a crash, get a safe distance away before doing anything else; fuel and battery fires can spread fast and reignite. Call 911 immediately so fire crews and medical responders can be dispatched together. If you or anyone nearby has been near smoke or flame, seek medical evaluation even if you feel fine, since smoke inhalation and burns are not always obvious right away. Once you're safe, write down what you remember, including the time, location, and any vehicles or conditions involved, and request a copy of the official crash report from Illinois State Police once it's available. Lean on family, friends, or local support resources in Pulaski in the days that follow; recovering from a traumatic crash takes time, not just medical treatment.
