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In a tragic incident, multiple juveniles lost their lives in a vehicular collision at an after-school facility in Chatham, Illinois. On Monday, April 28, 2025, at approximately 3:00 p.m., an automobile struck the YNOT Outdoors program, an agency currently under scrutiny for the underlying factors of the crash. Follow for updates on this developing story and investigative findings.
Chatham After-School Program Incident: What Transpired?
Emergency services received an alert at around 3:20 p.m. regarding a motor vehicle penetrating the premises of the YNOT Outdoors after-school center. Situated near Springfield, initial reports from the Associated Press indicate that this was not a deliberate assault. YNOT Outdoors issued a statement expressing their condolences and requesting prayers for the affected families and staff.
Casualties in the Chatham After-School Program Crash
Law enforcement confirmed the deaths of three minors and one young adult. Identification of the deceased is pending family notification. The following are the names of the victims:
- 7-year-old Alma Buhnerkempe
- 7-year-old Kathryn Corley
- 8-year-old Ainsley Johnson
- 18-year-old Rylee Britton
Additionally, six other children sustained injuries, with one in critical condition.
Injured Students
The injured children were promptly transported to nearby medical facilities. Updates on their conditions are forthcoming as medical professionals attend to their needs.
The Driver in the Chatham After-School Program Collision
The individual behind the wheel of the vehicle, Marianne Akers, 44, is not in custody. Though unharmed, she was transported to a hospital for assessment. The motive for the incident remains under investigation.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are still gathering evidence to determine the cause of the tragic event.