20-Year-Old Charged in Fatal Crash that Killed Elderly Couple in Geneva

Charles T. Rodgers faces multiple charges including reckless homicide and unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 10:33am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car part such as a twisted metal bumper or shattered glass, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the tragic consequences of the fatal crash.The aftermath of a high-speed collision exposes the grim reality of reckless driving and stolen vehicle crimes.Geneva Today

A 20-year-old man has been charged with reckless homicide and other serious crimes after allegedly driving a stolen BMW at over 120 mph and crashing into an elderly couple's vehicle, killing them both in Geneva, Illinois last year.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of reckless driving and vehicle theft, and the devastating impact they can have on innocent victims. It also raises questions about workplace policies and supervision that may have allowed the suspect to take the vehicle from his employer.

The details

According to authorities, on September 5, 2025, Charles T. Rodgers was driving a stolen BMW X3 at speeds approaching 120 mph when he crashed into a 2005 Toyota Corolla that was attempting to turn onto Bricher Road. The collision killed the 85-year-old driver of the Toyota, Dennis White, and his 88-year-old wife Ritsuko who was a passenger. Two of Rodgers' passengers also suffered fractures in the crash.

  • The collision occurred around 1:40 p.m. on September 5, 2025.
  • Rodgers appeared in court on Friday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Charles T. Rodgers

A 20-year-old resident of St. Charles, Illinois who has been charged with reckless homicide, unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle, and other serious crimes related to the fatal crash.

Dennis White

An 85-year-old Geneva man who was killed in the crash when his Toyota Corolla was struck by Rodgers' stolen BMW.

Ritsuko White

The 88-year-old wife of Dennis White who was also killed in the crash.

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What they’re saying

“The BMW was driven by Rodgers, who had three passengers in the car with him. Rodgers was not legally allowed to possess the car and had obtained it from a St. Charles Chrysler Dodge dealership where he was employed at the time.”

— Kane County State's Attorney Office

“Rodgers accelerated to 119 mph moments before the crash and did not attempt to brake, instead swerving and unsuccessfully avoiding the collision.”

— Prosecutors

What’s next

Rodgers is scheduled to appear in court again on May 20 for further proceedings.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences that can result from reckless driving and vehicle theft, and the importance of workplace policies and supervision to prevent such incidents from occurring.