ILLINOIS — Two children remain in critical condition following a late-night crash Thursday in Kankakee County that resulted in the driver being charged with driving under the influence, according to the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said they were dispatched at 11:23 p.m. to the area of 3700 East Illinois Route 17 after receiving an automated crash alert from an iPhone. When deputies arrived, they found a dark-colored pickup truck partially submerged in nearly two feet of partially frozen creek water.
Authorities identified the driver as 58-year-old Phyllis A. Moses of Pembroke Township. The vehicle was also occupied by two young children at the time of the crash.
The sheriff’s office said both children were transported to a Chicago-area hospital, where they remain in critical condition. Moses was taken to a local hospital for treatment and was later arrested on a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol.
Deputies said their immediate focus at the scene was ensuring the safety of those involved, particularly given the hazardous conditions created by cold water and overnight temperatures.
“Incidents of this nature are especially concerning given the dangerous conditions posed by cold water and overnight temperatures,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the rapid notification that allowed first responders to arrive quickly and provide assistance.”
The crash remains under investigation.
