Joliet Catholic Senior Killed in Route 59 Crash 'Had a Lot of Goals, He Wanted to Do It All': Mom

Isaak Torres, 18, was a four-year soccer player at Joliet Catholic Academy who also worked at a local McDonald's.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 11:41pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car windshield or other damaged vehicle part, conveying the gritty aftermath of a fatal collision through dramatic lighting and texture.The aftermath of a tragic crash on Route 59 near Joliet has left the community mourning the loss of a promising young student-athlete.Joliet Today

Isaak Torres, an 18-year-old senior at Joliet Catholic Academy, died in a two-vehicle crash on Route 59 near Joliet last week. His mother Deyanira described him as a determined, faith-filled young man with lofty dreams, including plans to study construction management in college and potentially become a barber. Isaak's tragic death has deeply impacted the Joliet Catholic community and beyond.

Why it matters

The loss of a promising young student-athlete like Isaak Torres is deeply felt within the Joliet community. His story highlights the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each day, as well as the need for continued road safety measures and support for grieving families.

The details

Police are still investigating the events surrounding the fatal crash, which occurred around 10:15 p.m. last Thursday. Isaak had been out grabbing a bite to eat and was on his way to a friend's house for a sleepover when the collision happened. The other driver, a 23-year-old man from Joliet, was treated for minor injuries and released from the hospital.

  • The crash occurred around 10:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • Visitation for Isaak will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2026 at 11 a.m.

The players

Isaak Torres

An 18-year-old senior at Joliet Catholic Academy who played soccer for four years and also worked at a local McDonald's. He had plans to study construction management in college and potentially become a barber.

Deyanira Torres

Isaak's mother, who described him as a determined, faith-filled young man with lofty dreams.

Joliet Catholic Academy

The high school Isaak attended, where he played soccer for four years and was on the volleyball team for his first three years.

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What they’re saying

“Isaak lived his 18 years with a spirit that was bright, determined, and deeply rooted in faith, family, and purpose.”

— Isaak Torres

“He left a lot behind. He had a lot of goals. He wanted to do it all.”

— Deyanira Torres, Isaak's mother

“Have no fear.”

— Isaak Torres

What’s next

Police are still investigating the events surrounding the fatal crash and are receiving assistance from the Illinois State Police.

The takeaway

Isaak's tragic death at just 18 years old serves as a poignant reminder to cherish each day and pursue our passions with purpose, as he did. His story also highlights the need for continued road safety measures and support for grieving families in the Joliet community.