Multiple Vehicle Accident on I-57 Thursday, January 29, 2026

For Immediate Release – January 29, 2026

Thursday Morning 1/29/2026 at 08:34 A.M. the Mattoon Fire Department along with Mitchell-Jerdan Ambulance, and Lincoln Fire Protection District were dispatched to I57 at approximately the 185-mile marker south bound for a multiple vehicle crash. Crews arrived on scene at 08:41 A.M. to find a 4-vehicle accident. Involved were 2 semi-trucks and 2 vehicles, with one of the semi-trucks being a tanker. This tanker was hauling sugar water; there were no Hazardous Materials being hauled by either of the semis. None of the vehicles were on fire in this accident. 1 of the semi drivers needed to be extricated from the cab of his truck with the use of extrication tools. 2 victims were transported to the hospital from this incident, 1 by ambulance, the other by Air-Evac, a medical helicopter.

Unfortunately, one of the vehicles occupants was fatal. None of the involved names will be released until family can be notified. Please be thinking and praying for all of those involved in this unfortunate accident.

Illinois State Police are the authority having jurisdiction, any other information regarding this incident will come from them once their investigation is complete.

Jeff Hilligoss

Fire Chief