MOTHER & SON KILLED BY DRIVER ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL
One week ago, a young mother and her 4-year-old son were killed in a head-on collision after the driver in the oncoming car fell asleep at the wheel. The 17-year-old driver of the oncoming car admitted to police that he was returning from an all-night fishing trip. He was cited for driving under the influence of marijuana, driving too fast for conditions and driving in the wrong lane.
The Tazewell County State's Attorney's Office may press criminal charges against the teen for reckless homicide or aggravated driving under the influence. Prosecutors are awaiting blood test results for drugs and alcohol before formally charging him.
The 27-year-old mom and her 4-year-old were heading to mud pits in Manito, Illinois where they were going to join friends and go off-roading in 4-wheel-drive trucks. A benefit fund has been established at all CEFCU locations to help pay for funeral expenses.
This story underscores the importance of never operating a vehicle when under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Substances impair judgment, and slow down the central nervous system which causes a decrease in motor coordination, reaction time and intellectual performance. Driving while drowsy can be just as dangerous. Never drive when you are too tired. Falling asleep at the wheel can have catastrophic results.
My most heartfelt condolences to the family of these two lives cut short. This accident was completely preventable and it is my hope that the teenager responsible for this horrific tragedy is prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
