TEUTOPLIS, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Illinois State Police announced that the individual and vehicle believed to be involved in an accident just outside of Teutopolis that resulted in five deaths and multiple injuries has been identified.
The deadly crash occurred on September 29 at 8:42 p.m. on Highway 40 East.
The crash also involved a semi-truck tanker carrying 7,500 gallons of ammonia, which leaked due to the tank being punctured, according to state police. Due to the plume from the ammonia leak, roughly 500 residents were evacuated from northeastern parts of Teutopolis until around 8 p.m. on September 30 and Highway 40 was closed between Effingham and Montrose.
Information provided by the community helped authorities identify the individual involved.
“The information we received from the community has been instrumental in identifying the vehicle and driver believed to be involved in this case," said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly.
State police did not provide further information regarding the identity at this time as the investigation continues.
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