A fatal collision on U.S. Highway 34 near Wataga in rural Knox County has claimed the life of a 7th-grade teacher and coach at Galesburg Junior/Senior High School. The victim has been identified as Jordan Ball, according to an announcement from the school.
The incident occurred around 2:49 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 1, when a gray Kia sedan collided with a truck-tractor semi-trailer at the intersection of U.S. 34 and 2200 North Road (also known as IL-167). Illinois State Police Troop 4 responded immediately, confirming one fatality at the scene. Both directions of the highway were closed for several hours during the investigation and wreckage clearance, with the road reopening around 9:30 p.m.
The Illinois State Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit is leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash.
In a post on their official Facebook page, Galesburg Junior/Senior High School shared the news of Ball’s passing, describing him as a “caring educator who touched the lives of countless students.” The school stated: “It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our dedicated 7th-grade teacher and coach, Jordan Ball. We extend our deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time. ROE #33’s School Crisis Response Team is available in the library throughout the day to support students, parents, and staff.”
