Driver killed in I-94 crash involving semi-truck

Incident occurred on Far South Side of Chicago early Sunday morning

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A driver was killed in a crash involving a semi-truck on I-94 near the 130th Street exit in Chicago's Far South Side around 1:15 a.m. on Sunday. The driver of the Nissan SUV was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, while the semi-truck driver was also injured and taken to a local hospital. All southbound lanes were closed until 5 a.m. as authorities investigated the cause of the crash.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of late-night driving and the potential for catastrophic accidents involving large commercial vehicles on major highways. I-94 is a critical transportation artery in the Chicago area, and any closures or disruptions can have significant impacts on commuters and commerce.

The details

According to the Illinois State Police, the crash occurred around 1:15 a.m. on Sunday in the southbound lanes of I-94 near the 130th Street exit. The driver of a Nissan SUV was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital after the collision with the semi-truck. The semi-truck driver was also injured and transported to a local hospital. All southbound lanes were closed until 5 a.m. as authorities investigated the cause of the crash, which remains under investigation.

  • The crash happened around 1:15 a.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
  • All southbound lanes were closed until 5 a.m. on Sunday.

The players

Illinois State Police

The state law enforcement agency that responded to and is investigating the crash.

Nissan SUV driver

The driver of the Nissan SUV who was killed in the collision with the semi-truck.

Semi-truck driver

The driver of the semi-truck who was injured in the crash and transported to a local hospital.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of safe driving practices, especially on major highways late at night when visibility and conditions can be more challenging. It also highlights the need for continued vigilance and safety measures to protect both passenger and commercial vehicle operators on Chicago's roadways.