Editor’s note: This story has been updated to include a statement from the Knox County Coroner’s Office.
Two people died early Sunday after being ejected from a motorcycle that was struck by a vehicle traveling the wrong direction on Interstate 74 near Knoxville, according to the Knox County Coroner’s Office.
The Illinois State Police says the crash occurred at approximately 2:13 a.m. Sunday at milepost 55 in Knox County, involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle. The Coroner’s Office says it was called to the scene at 2:36 a.m. and found two deceased adults who had been ejected from the motorcycle after the vehicle, traveling the wrong direction, collided with them.
Knox County Coroner Jacque M. Dare said in a statement that the driver and passenger of the motorcycle sustained injuries “not compatible with life” and were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car was transported to OSF St. Mary Medical Center.
Dare said names of the deceased have circulated on social media, but the Coroner’s Office is not yet confirming identities.
“We understand that we will never be able to stay ahead of social media,” Dare said. “We at the Coroner’s Office ask that you keep the families in your prayers and give them time to grieve.”
Dare said she plans to release a further statement Monday.
I-74 westbound was closed at the scene following the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
