05/26/2026
NEWS RELEASE Contact: Sgt. Tizoc Landeros
(Joliet, Illinois – May 25, 2026) – On May 25, 2026, a Joliet police officer attempted to prevent a crash in the 500 block of W. Jefferson Street. The crash involved a gray Honda coupe and a black Chevrolet Equinox SUV. Both drivers were provided first aid at the scene and later transported to Saint Joseph Medical Center. At this time, the driver of the Honda is awaiting air transport to another hospital.
Tonight, minutes passed 9:30 pm, an officer observed a gray Honda coupe traveling the wrong way westbound on Jefferson Street near the Will County Courthouse. The officer attempted to stop the Honda by activating the squad car’s emergency lights and sirens. The Honda continued westbound over the Jefferson Street bridge.
The Honda accelerated away from the officer while continuing to drive in the oncoming traffic lanes on Jefferson Street past N. Hickory Street and Center Street. The Honda increased its speed and pulled away from the officer before ultimately crashing into a black Chevrolet Equinox.
Officers arrived on scene and rendered first aid to both drivers. Joliet Fire Department paramedics responded and transported both drivers to Saint Joseph Medical Center. At this time, the driver of the Honda is awaiting air transport to another hospital. Both drivers are currently listed in critical but stable condition.
Jefferson Street will be shut down from Wilcox Street to Nicholson Street for several hours while officers conduct a traffic crash reconstruction investigation. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes to avoid congestion and allow Joliet Police Traffic Reconstructionists to perform their duties.
Anyone with video footage or additional information regarding this crash is encouraged to contact the Joliet Police Department Traffic Unit at 815-724-3010. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may contact Will County Crime Stoppers at 800-323-6734 or submit a tip online at crimestoppersofwillcounty.org.
DISCLAIMER: This case summary shall not be used as an official Joliet Police Department report or for court purposes. During the time of this news release, the case is still ongoing and being investigated. For further detail please refer to the completed Official Joliet Police Report. Arrest records are public information. An arrest does not mean that the individual(s) identified has been convicted of a crime. All persons arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
