by Hillside, Illinois — Authorities have identified the pedestrian who was killed in a violent multi-vehicle crash that unfolded Wednesday afternoon in the western suburbs, leaving multiple people injured and prompting an ongoing investigation.
Police said Edward Price, 78, died after being struck near the intersection of Butterfield Road and Wolf Road in Hillside around 1 p.m. Price was crossing the roadway toward a parking lot when a vehicle lost control and hit him, according to law enforcement.
Chain-reaction crash leaves multiple victims injured
After striking Price, the driver continued through the intersection and collided with a police squad car that was stopped at a red light, authorities said. The vehicle then kept moving and hit several additional cars before coming to a stop.
Police said the driver, whose name has not been released, is believed to have lost consciousness prior to or during the crash. As of Thursday, the driver remained hospitalized.
In total, seven other people were taken to hospitals, including two police officers, officials confirmed.
Officers respond immediately despite being struck
The police squad car involved in the crash was stationary at the time of impact. Despite being hit, officers inside the vehicle immediately exited and began assisting victims.
“These two young officers got out of their squad and ran almost a block after this car that was traveling at a high rate of speed, crashing into multiple other cars,” said Police Chief Dan Murphy. “They ran into the Walgreens. One of them was performing CPR on a pedestrian, and the other was trying to control traffic.”
Officials praised the officers’ quick response amid what they described as a chaotic and rapidly unfolding scene.
Read Also: New Jersey Man Charged in Alleged SNAP Fraud Scheme Involving Stolen Identities
Scene shows extensive damage
Video from the area showed three heavily damaged vehicles inside a nearby parking lot. Debris was scattered across the scene, including a crushed walker, underscoring the severity of the impact.
Investigators have not yet said whether speed, a medical emergency, or other factors contributed to the crash.
Investigation ongoing
The West Suburban Major Crimes crash team has taken over the investigation. Authorities said they are reviewing evidence, vehicle data, and witness accounts to determine the exact cause of the collision.
No charges have been announced at this time.
Officials extended condolences to Price’s family and said further updates will be released as the investigation continues.
What steps do you think could help prevent serious pedestrian crashes at busy suburban intersections? Share your thoughts in the comments.
