Jayson Sun Joo Park, 69, of Morton Grove, Illinois, Killed in Fiery Semi-Truck Crash on Edens Expressway Near Touhy Avenue
On the morning of Tuesday, April 29, 2025, a tragic accident occurred on the inbound lanes of the Edens Expressway (I-94) near Touhy Avenue in Skokie, Illinois. The collision involved a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle, resulting in the death of Jayson Sun Joo Park, a 69-year-old resident of Morton Grove, Illinois. The incident led to a complete shutdown of the expressway for several hours during the morning commute, causing significant delays in the northern suburbs of Chicago.
Incident Overview
The crash took place at approximately 3:50 a.m. near the Touhy Avenue exit. According to Illinois State Police, the semi-truck rolled over, caught fire, and struck support beams on the Touhy Avenue bridge. The passenger vehicle ended up in a ditch. Jayson Sun Joo Park, the driver of the Toyota taxi involved in the crash, was tragically killed. Another individual was transported to the hospital with injuries.
Emergency Response and Road Closure
Emergency crews responded promptly to the scene, working to extinguish the flames and clear the wreckage. The inbound lanes of the Edens Expressway were shut down for several hours, causing significant traffic disruptions. The closure lasted until shortly after 11:00 a.m., with all lanes reopening to traffic.
Impact on Traffic
The extended closure of the inbound Edens Expressway during the morning rush hour led to major traffic backups in the area. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes, and significant delays were reported throughout the northern suburbs.
Ongoing Investigation
Illinois State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. No further details have been released at this time. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to determine the cause of the incident.
Previous Incidents at the Same Location
This tragic event is not the first incident to occur on the Edens Expressway near Touhy Avenue. On December 1, 2024, a pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle on the Edens Expressway near Touhy Avenue. According to Illinois State Police, troopers were called to the scene near Touhy Avenue at approximately 6:29 a.m. Sunday after a pedestrian was struck by at least one vehicle. That pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene, and troopers closed the outbound side of the highway, diverting traffic onto Peterson Street. That roadway remained closed as of 8:45 a.m. Sunday. No further information was immediately available.
Additionally, on December 1, 2024, a pedestrian was killed in a crash on the Edens Expressway in suburban Lincolnwood. About 6:30 a.m., troopers responded to a crash involving two vehicles and a pedestrian on I-94 northbound at Touhy Avenue, Illinois State Police said. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene, state police said. The northbound lanes of I-94 were closed until about 12:30 p.m. State police have not provided any additional information.
Community Response
The community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Jayson Sun Joo Park. He was a beloved member of the Morton Grove community, and his untimely death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and all who knew him. Memorial services are being planned to honor his life and legacy.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
In light of this tragic incident, Illinois State Police are urging all motorists to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws, especially in construction zones and areas with heavy traffic. Drivers are reminded to maintain a safe following distance, avoid distractions, and be prepared for sudden stops or changes in traffic patterns.
Pedestrians are also reminded to use designated crosswalks and to be vigilant when crossing highways. It is essential for both drivers and pedestrians to remain alert and prioritize safety to prevent further accidents.
Conclusion
The fatal crash on the Edens Expressway near Touhy Avenue serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on our roadways. While the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Jayson Sun Joo Park and remains hopeful that lessons can be learned to prevent future tragedies. As authorities work to determine the cause of the incident, it is crucial for all individuals to remain vigilant and prioritize safety on the roads.
For more information on traffic updates and safety tips, motorists are encouraged to visit the Illinois Department of Transportation’s website or follow local news outlets for the latest developments.
