High Speed Chase Leads to Fatal Crash in Murphysboro, Illinois

High Speed Chase Leads to Fatal Crash in Murphysboro, Illinois

A driver’s refusal to stop for police led to a fatal crash in Murphysboro, Illinois the morning of February 4, 2025, leaving one person dead and another with life-threatening injuries, according to the Illinois State Police.

At approximately 1:30 a.m., a Murphysboro Illinois Police Department officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle that had previously evaded law enforcement. However, the driver failed to comply and fled. A chase ensured but the officer lost sight of the vehicle. Shortly after, the car was found crashed near South 14th Street and South Street in Murphysboro.
The driver, who refused to stop, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the female passenger was transported to a nearby hospital with devastating injuries. The Illinois State Police has not released further details at this time.

Anthony Mackiewicz, a person residing nearby the scene of the crash, described the moment the crash occurred.“ I was awoken by what I thought was an earthquake,” Mackiewicz said. “I felt the whole house move.” He witnessed the aftermath, stating that the vehicle, which had been traveling at approximately 100 miles per hour, struck a tree in a parking lot, wrapped around it, and caught fire.“ It was T-boned right in the middle of the front end, and the front end was on fire when I came outside,” Mackiewicz stated.

Criminal and Civil Consequences in Illinois if You Flee Police and Cause a Wreck

In Illinois, failing to stop for police and causing a car wreck carries severe criminal consequences, ranging from misdemeanor charges to felonies, depending on the severity of the incident. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-204, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer is typically a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. However, if the flight results in bodily harm, property damage, or death, the charge can be elevated to a Class 4 felony, which carries one to three years in prison and increased fines. If the offender has prior offenses or if the incident leads to a fatality, the penalties can be even more severe, potentially escalating to Class 3 or Class 2 felonies with longer prison sentences.

When a suspect’s failure to stop results in serious bodily injury or death, additional criminal charges may apply, such as reckless homicide (Class 3 felony) or aggravated fleeing and eluding (Class 4 felony). Aggravated fleeing and eluding involves exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 mph, causing injury, or running through multiple traffic control devices. A conviction for aggravated fleeing can result in license revocation, up to six years in prison, and significant fines. In cases where alcohol or drugs are involved, additional DUI-related charges may also be filed, further increasing the legal penalties.

Beyond criminal penalties, there are civil consequences for causing a wreck while fleeing from police. The injured parties or their families can file lawsuits for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death claims. Under Illinois’ comparative negligence laws, if the fleeing driver survives the crash, they may still be held personally liable for all resulting damages. Courts may award punitive damages in cases where the driver’s actions were deemed especially reckless or egregious. Even if a suspect dies in the crash, their estate could still be sued for damages by victims or their families.

Additionally, Illinois law allows for civil forfeiture and financial penalties, meaning the vehicle involved in the crime could be seized by the state if it was used in the commission of a felony. The driver’s license is also subject to automatic revocation, making future legal driving impossible without extensive legal intervention. Insurance companies may refuse to cover damages if the driver was engaged in criminal activity, leaving them or their estate responsible for all costs. Ultimately, fleeing from the police and causing a crash in Illinois has long-term criminal and civil repercussions, affecting not only the driver but also their victims, families, and financial future.

Experienced Injury Lawyers Can Help Victims Hurt By Drivers Fleeing Police

At Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C., we understand the devastating impact that reckless driving from police chases can have on innocent victims. When someone chooses to flee from law enforcement and causes a crash, the non-negligent, injured parties are left to deal with physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. Our heart goes out to the female passenger referenced in this tragic case. Being involved in such a horrific accident—especially one caused by someone else’s reckless decision—can be an overwhelming, life-changing and traumatic experience.

The experienced attorneys at Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C. are dedicated to helping victims and their families pursue justice and full compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We aggressively advocate for our clients, ensuring that those responsible for their suffering—whether the fleeing driver, their estate, or even potentially negligent third parties—are held fully accountable under Illinois law. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to another person’s failure to stop for police, we are here to provide compassionate legal guidance. We take a personalized approach, ensuring that our clients receive not only legal representation but also the support they need during such a difficult time. Our firm has extensive experience handling personal injury and wrongful death claims related to high-speed crashes, and we are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation possible.

At Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C., we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay unless we win your case. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash caused by a fleeing driver, contact us today online or give us a call (618)-244-5335 to discuss your legal options—we are here to help you through this difficult time.