Avondale, IL (February 21, 2026) – A two-car crash killed one man and left another critically injured on Friday, February 20, in the 3500 block of North Elston Avenue in Avondale. The collision occurred around 5:50 a.m., according to the Chicago Police Department.
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Police determined that a Toyota RAV4 traveled north on North Elston Avenue and failed to obey a traffic signal. The vehicle then struck a Toyota Prius traveling southbound near Kedzie Avenue.
The impact left the Prius heavily damaged and seriously injured both occupants. Paramedics transported a 25-year-old male passenger to Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he later died.
Crews also transported the 37-year-old driver of the Prius to the same hospital for emergency treatment. Authorities have not released details about his current condition.
Investigators reported that the driver of the RAV4 exited the vehicle and fled the scene on foot after the crash. Officers have not made any arrests, and no one is currently in custody.
The Chicago Police Department is leading the investigation and urges anyone with information about the fleeing driver to come forward.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the man who lost his life. We also hope the injured driver makes a full and steady recovery.
Can I Seek Compensation After Losing a Loved One in a Hit-and-Run Accident in Illinois?
You can pursue compensation after a fatal hit-and-run crash in Illinois. State law allows a wrongful death claim when the at-fault driver leaves the scene. A civil case may begin through insurance or proceed in court if authorities identify the driver.
Illinois law requires a personal representative to file the wrongful death action. This claim is brought on behalf of surviving relatives, such as a spouse or children. The court supervises how any recovery is divided among eligible family members.
Uninsured motorist coverage often plays a central role in hit-and-run cases. This protection may exist under the victim’s own auto policy. Families can file a claim directly with the insurance carrier when the responsible driver remains unknown.
Compensation may include funeral and burial expenses. Families may also seek damages for lost income the deceased would have earned. Illinois law also recognizes loss of companionship and the absence of guidance and support.
Insurance companies may request recorded statements or detailed documentation before paying a claim. Families should review policy terms carefully before responding. Deadlines and filing rules can affect recovery.
A wrongful death attorney can evaluate available insurance coverage and confirm filing requirements. A lawyer can also investigate the crash, gather evidence, and manage communication with insurers.
At Ankin Law, we represent families who have lost loved ones in crashes across Illinois. We review insurance policies, accident reports, and court procedures to help build a strong claim.
For more information about your options after a fatal hit-and-run accident, contact Ankin Law at (844) 600-0000 to schedule a free consultation.
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.
