University Park, IL (September 7, 2026) – A 57-year-old Park Forest man died Friday, September 4, following a crash on Governors Highway near University Parkway in University Park, according to authorities. The stretch of highway was shut down for several hours as crews responded.
The University Park Police Department reported around 11:15 a.m. Friday that Governors Highway was closed due to a crash involving injuries. The Will County Coroner’s Office said the man, identified as Richard A. Wojcikowski, was pronounced dead at 12:45 p.m. that same day.
Details about how the crash occurred, including the number of vehicles involved and what may have contributed to it, have not been released. Authorities have not indicated whether any other injuries resulted from the crash.
University Park police and Illinois State Police are jointly investigating the crash, according to authorities. No further information has been made public as the investigation continues.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why Speed Turns a Roadway Crash Into a Fatal One
The difference between a survivable crash and a fatal one often comes down to how much energy a body absorbs in a fraction of a second. As a vehicle’s speed increases, the force generated in a sudden stop grows dramatically, far outpacing what a body’s skeleton, organs, and soft tissue can withstand even with seatbelts and airbags working as designed.
On roads like Governors Highway, where posted speeds can be higher than in dense residential areas, that margin narrows quickly. A crash at higher speed leaves less time for a vehicle’s crumple zones and safety systems to slow the deceleration gradually, meaning more of that force transfers directly to the people inside.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 37,654 fatal traffic crashes occurred in 2023. Speed remains one of the most consistent factors separating those fatal outcomes from crashes that result only in property damage or minor injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are fatal crashes like this one investigated?
Local police typically work alongside state police to reconstruct the crash scene, review physical evidence, and interview any witnesses. Toxicology and mechanical inspections may also be part of the process.
How long does a fatal-crash investigation usually take?
Timelines vary widely. Some conclude within weeks, while others involving reconstruction or lab results can take several months before findings are finalized.
Does impairment commonly play a role in fatal crashes?
Impairment from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue is a factor in many fatal crashes nationally, though whether it played a role in any specific case depends on the investigation and toxicology results.
Where do fatal crashes most often happen?
Fatal crashes are frequently concentrated on higher-speed roads, including highways and rural routes, where impact forces tend to be greater than on lower-speed residential streets.
What to Do After a Fatal Crash in University Park, Illinois
If you witness or are involved in a serious crash, call 911 immediately and stay clear of traffic while waiting for help. Even if you feel unharmed, a medical evaluation afterward is worthwhile, since some injuries are not immediately apparent.
Cooperate with responding officers and provide an accurate account of what you observed. If you’re a bystander, avoid sharing unverified details on social media until authorities release official information. For those personally affected by a crash in University Park, leaning on local support resources and giving investigators time to complete their work can help bring clarity in the days ahead.
