(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – A Downers Grove man has been charged with reckless homicide following a rollover crash earlier this month that claimed the life of his passenger, authorities in DuPage County announced.
Downers Grove police on April 3 responded to a single-vehicle accident in the 5400 block of Fairmount Avenue. Two men found at the scene – driver Jacob Liapis, 21, and 23-year-old Matthew Heffner of Darien, a passenger – were transported to a local hospital, officials said.
Heffner died of his injuries April 7. An investigation revealed that Heffner had been ejected from the Cadillac ATS he was riding in when Liapis, the driver, lost control of the vehicle and the car “rolled several times,” according to a news release.
Liapis allegedly was traveling at 69 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone and ignored a stop sign before the accident occurred.
“It is alleged that Mr. Liapis’ reckless actions of ignoring a stop sign and excessive speeding cost his best friend, Matthew Heffner, his life,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said. “This tragic loss of a young, promising life will forever change the lives of the friends and family of those who loved Matthew, including Mr. Liapis.”
Bond for Liapis on the Class 3 felony charge was set this week at $100,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 25.
Related
Listen to our new podcast Courier Pigeon
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram