Madison Co., IL – Two Killed in Fiery Crash on Rte 162

Madison County, IL (September 21, 2025) – Two people lost their lives in a fiery crash on Friday night, September 19. The deadly collision happened on Route 162 between Interstate 255 and Route 157, near Pontoon Beach.

A white car on fire after a car crash.

Witnesses said the crash left both victims trapped inside their vehicle. Flames spread quickly through the wreckage.

Firefighters from Mitchell and Long Lake rushed to the scene and worked with other emergency crews. Despite their efforts, the victims died at the scene. Illinois State Police also responded and brought in a crash reconstruction team to help Pontoon Beach police investigate.

The Madison County coroner’s office will release the names of the victims once their families have been notified.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families during this heartbreaking time.

Fatal Car Accidents in Illinois

Fatal car accidents remain one of the most devastating tragedies on Illinois roadways. Madison County sees its share of serious collisions, especially on heavily traveled corridors like Route 162. Speed, distraction, and impaired driving are often major contributors to crashes that end in loss of life.

Statistics show that thousands of serious crashes happen annually throughout the state. Many of them occur late at night when visibility is reduced and drivers may be tired. In some cases, impaired driving plays a role. These conditions make collisions more likely to end in tragedy, as seen in the Madison County accident.

The aftermath of a fatal accident is not only emotional but also financial. Families often face funeral costs, medical bills, and the sudden loss of income and support. Illinois law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims when negligence plays a role in a deadly crash. These claims can provide compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the emotional pain of losing a loved one.

Navigating these cases is difficult without experienced legal guidance. Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that fail to account for the true costs families face. A compassionate Chicago wrongful death lawyer can investigate the crash, build a strong case, and hold negligent drivers accountable. 

At Ankin Law, we know how devastating fatal accidents are for families. We have decades of experience guiding families across Illinois through these painful times. We fight to protect your rights, demand justice, and secure the financial support your family deserves.

If your family lost a loved one in a fatal crash in Madison County or anywhere in Illinois, call Ankin Law today at (844) 600-0000 for a free consultation. We are here to stand with you, provide compassionate support, and help you move forward.

Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.

Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at this accident scene. 

Chicago personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney Howard Ankin has a passion for justice and a relentless commitment to defending injured victims throughout the Chicagoland area. With decades of experience achieving justice on behalf of the people of Chicago, Howard has earned a reputation as a proven leader in and out of the courtroom. Respected by peers and clients alike, Howard’s multifaceted approach to the law and empathetic nature have secured him a spot as an influential figure in the Illinois legal system.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Illinois Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: Illinois State Bar Association, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois
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