Chatham Community Memorial
A devastating car crash in Chatham, Illinois, on April 28, 2025, resulted in the loss of four young lives, leaving the community in mourning. Victims included three local children and a young adult from Springfield. In the aftermath, the community has come together to support the affected families, holding vigils and organizing counseling services. Classes in the Ball-Chatham School District were suspended as a precaution to help students process the tragedy. The incident has left a profound impact on the town, prompting local leaders to express their condolences to the grieving families.
In a devastating incident that has shaken the tight-knit community of Chatham, Illinois, a car crash occurred at an after-school program on April 28, 2025, leaving four young lives lost and several others affected. This tragic event happened around 3:20 p.m., just as children were arriving for their after-school activities.
The victims of this heart-wrenching crash have been identified as 18-year-old Rylee Britton, from Springfield, and three local children: 8-year-old Ainsley Johnson and two 7-year-olds, Kathryn Corley and Alma Buhnerkempe. The entire community is coming to grips with the loss and mourning the young lives that were cut short far too soon.
The driver, 44-year-old Marianne Akers, who resides in Chatham, fortunately did not suffer any injuries but was taken to the hospital for evaluation following the incident. Fortunately, authorities have reassured the public that the crash does not appear to be a targeted attack. As of now, Akers is not in custody while an investigation is ongoing, and toxicology reports are pending.
Witnesses reported that the car veered off the road for unknown reasons, traveling through a nearby field before crashing into the eastern side of the building, which houses the “YNOT (Youth Needing Other Things Outdoors)” program.
This popular after-school program offers a safe place for kids to engage in outdoor activities and receive care after a long day at school. Unfortunately, the crash struck just when excitement was building among children arriving for their afternoon activities.
In total, six additional children were injured due to the accident, with one in critical condition. The community has rallied together to support those affected, forming a united front of love and care for the grieving families.
A vigil was held on April 29, 2025, where hundreds of residents gathered to express their sorrow and support for the victims’ families. Attendees were encouraged to decorate heart-shaped boards with messages of love and remembrance, creating a poignant scene of solidarity.
Local churches and community members have stepped up, offering comfort and counseling services to help those struggling with grief during this painful time.
To allow students to process this tragedy, classes in the Ball-Chatham School District were suspended, and online classes were implemented for the remainder of the week. This decision aims to prioritize the well-being and mental health of the students and staff affected by the incident.
The area around the crash site has been transformed into a spot of remembrance, adorned with red ribbons, flowers, and heartfelt messages in honor of the young victims. Plywood now covers the hole in the building where the tragic accident occurred, serving as a poignant reminder of the day that forever changed the lives of many.
As the Chatham community, which boasts a population of around 14,500, comes together in their shared grief, local leaders have organized various forms of support for the grieving families. The loss of these young lives has struck a deep chord within the hearts of residents, leading many to express their feelings of disbelief and sorrow.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker referred to the incident as an “unspeakable tragedy,” extending condolences to the families affected. As the community continues to process this heartbreaking event, it finds strength in each other, proving that even in challenging times, a strong support system can help mend the wounds of loss.
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