From Wabash County Sheriff Derek Morgan:

On 03.01.2024 at 9:47 A.M. the Wabash County Sheriff's Office responded to a two-car crash on Wabash 17 Ave (Goodson Orchard road), one mile west of E 700 Rd.. This was reported as a head on collision. Wabash General Hospital Ambulance Service responded with 2 ambulances, along with the Illinois State Police and the Mt. Carmel and Bellmont fire departments. 

 Once on scene the deputy found two vehicles, one with major damage. It was found that driver of unit 1, 18-year-old Grace A. Williams of Olney, was adjusting her radio on her 2013 Chevrolet Malibu and crossed over the center dividing line while going west bound. Once unit 1 crossed the dividing line it struck an east bound 2010 Toyota Tacoma. The Tacoma came to rest on the south side of the road facing east, and the Malibu came to rest in the west bound lane on the north shoulder of the road. 

 Both drivers were entrapped in their vehicles and had to be extricated by emergency personnel. Driver of Unit 1 sustained significant injuries and was transported by ambulance form the scene. Life saving measures were performed on the driver of unit 2, 78-year-old Timothy B. Yates, of West Salem , but were unsuccessful due to injuries sustained in the crash. Wabash County Coroner, Shaun Keepes arrived on scene and pronounced Yates deceased. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Glenn's Towing. AirEvac responded to the scene as well. 

 Driver of unit 1 was issued two citations for the crash: Improper lane usage and a citation for distracted driving.