URBANA, Ill. — A tragic motorcycle accident Wednesday night claimed the life of 35-year-old Hector Santiago-Cardona of Champaign, leaving the community mourning and prompting an extensive investigation by local authorities.
The incident occurred around 7:20 p.m. near the on-ramp to eastbound Interstate 74, involving two motorcycles and a semi-truck. Santiago-Cardona was pronounced dead at Carle Foundation Hospital at 7:57 p.m., according to Champaign County Coroner Laurie Brauer.
Details of the Collision
Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of the semi-truck, 37-year-old Hugo Bautista-Perez, was attempting a left turn and failed to yield to oncoming traffic, according to Urbana Police. This maneuver resulted in a collision with the two motorcycles, which were traveling northbound on Cunningham Avenue.
One of the motorcycle riders, Santiago-Cardona, was transported to the hospital but could not be saved. The other rider sustained minor injuries and was treated and released from medical care. Bautista-Perez was issued a citation for failure to yield the right-of-way while turning left.
Road Closure and Investigation
The crash forced authorities to close a 2-mile stretch of northbound Cunningham Avenue for approximately 2½ hours as emergency personnel and investigators worked the scene. The Illinois State Police Accident Reconstruction Team assisted Urbana police in evaluating the collision and gathering evidence.
Officials stressed that the investigation remains ongoing, and they are asking anyone with additional information to come forward. Community members can contact Urbana Police at 217-384-2320, or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 217-373-TIPS (217-373-8477), online at 373tips.com, or through the P3 Tips mobile app.
Community Safety and Anonymous Reporting
Authorities reminded the public that information submitted to Crime Stoppers is completely anonymous. Calls are routed through a third-party national call center, ensuring that caller ID is not tracked and conversations are not recorded. The center collects tip information and forwards it to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Officials emphasized that public cooperation is critical in ensuring a thorough understanding of the events that led to the fatal collision. Community members are encouraged to provide any information, no matter how minor, to assist investigators in piecing together the full circumstances of the crash.
Mourning and Moving Forward
The death of Hector Santiago-Cardona has left family, friends, and the Champaign-Urbana community grappling with loss. Residents have expressed shock at the suddenness of the accident and extended thoughts and condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant, especially at intersections and areas of high traffic, and reminded motorcyclists and motorists alike to exercise caution when sharing the roadway.
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