CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL – A possible tornado in Champaign County resulted in a severe multiple-vehicle accident involving more than 20 vehicles on I-57 near Ludlow.
High winds caused chaos on the road, tossing vehicles and leaving a trail of destruction behind.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:50 PM CDT on Friday, March 31, 2023. The tornado warning issued by the US National Weather Service Chicago affected a population of 8,629, with 10 schools and no hospitals. The warning caused dangerous weather conditions, leading to the accident.
The Paxton Fire Department immediately responded to the scene and provided medical assistance to the injured. The accident involved a bus and several semis, resulting in several injuries.
It’s unclear if any of the injuries were fatal.
Illinois state police troop 7 announced the closure of I-57 between Paxton & Rantoul due to weather-related issues, and US 136 is also closed between Champaign County 1000E and 1100E. These closures will last several hours, and motorists are advised to avoid the affected areas and seek alternative routes.
