GLENWOOD, Ill. — Two young motorcyclists were killed in a violent crash late Friday night in south suburban Glenwood, according to Illinois State Police.
The collision occurred just before 10 p.m. on Illinois Route 394 near Dyer Road, when one northbound motorcycle rear-ended another, causing both riders to crash.
Victims Identified by Medical Examiner
Illinois State Police said the motorcyclist who was rear-ended was pronounced dead at the scene. She was later identified as 24-year-old Sarah Gudeman, a resident of the area.
The second motorcyclist, who rear-ended Gudeman, was transported to Franciscan Health Munster in Indiana but was also pronounced dead. The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified him as 22-year-old Justin Fasnacht of Crown Point, Indiana.
Crash Under Investigation by State Police
The Illinois State Police closed the roadway for several hours overnight while investigating the fatal scene. Route 394 was shut down between Dyer Road and nearby junctions, reopening around 3 a.m. Saturday.
As of now, ISP has not released further details on whether speed, impairment, or road conditions played a role in the fatal crash.
Community Shock and Tragic Reminder
The deaths of two young riders have left friends and family reeling, especially given the summer increase in motorcycle activity across suburban and rural highways.
Authorities are urging drivers and motorcyclists to maintain distance and remain alert to avoid these tragic outcomes.
Have you witnessed dangerous driving on suburban roads like Route 394? Share your experience in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.