KANKAKEE, Ill. — A tragic accident early Sunday morning claimed the lives of three local men in the historic Kankakee Riverview neighborhood. The Kankakee County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identities of the victims shortly after the incident.
The deceased have been identified as Kiyantis Riley, 45; Philip Birdsong, 48; and Jeffrey Clark II, 41. Riley was reportedly the driver of the vehicle involved in the crash. Authorities stated that all three men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Initial investigations by the Kankakee Police Department, Kankakee County Coroner’s Office, and Illinois State Police suggest that the vehicle, a 2008 GMC Yukon, veered off the roadway and collided with a tree. Witnesses indicated that the SUV was traveling at a high speed before the crash.
Police Chief Chris Kidwell noted that officers received emergency calls regarding the incident around 1:07 a.m. The crash occurred in the 900 block of South Cobb Boulevard. When first responders arrived, the vehicle was engulfed in flames, complicating rescue efforts.
Firefighters worked to access the vehicle but faced significant challenges due to the intensity of the fire. Despite their attempts, they could not reach the occupants in time. The authorities have confirmed that next-of-kin notifications were made by the coroner’s office.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing, as officials gather more information and statements from witnesses. The community is mourning the loss of the three men, with many expressing their condolences to the victims’ families during this difficult time.
Local residents have gathered in shock as details of the incident emerge, reflecting on the life and contributions of each man within their community.