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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Accident Claims Life of 19-Year-Old Harvard Man in McHenry County
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 19-year-old Harvard man, Diego Gonzalez Mendoza, lost his life following a devastating three-vehicle collision on Route 14 near Woodstock in McHenry County. The incident, which occurred on Feb. 12, has left the community in mourning.
Details of the Tragic Accident
According to reports from authorities, the accident took place at the intersection of Route 14 and Dunham Road near Woodstock at around 2:15 p.m. The sequence of events unfolded when a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze traveling south on Route 14 attempted to pass a semi-truck in the 17100 block of Route 14 in unincorporated Harvard. Unfortunately, the Chevrolet rear-ended a 2011 Infinity, causing the Infinity to veer off the road and come to a halt in an open field.
The tragic incident did not end there. The Chevrolet continued its trajectory, crossing over the roadway before colliding head-on with an unoccupied Hyundai Sonata in the parking lot of a nearby business. Diego Gonzalez Mendoza, the driver of the Chevrolet, sustained critical injuries in the crash and was airlifted to Javon Bea Hospital-Riverside in Rockford, where he tragically passed away later that day.
Alcohol Suspected as a Factor
Authorities have indicated that alcohol is believed to have played a role in the collision, adding a layer of tragedy to the already devastating situation. The driver of the Infinity, a 63-year-old man from Lake Barrington, and a passenger in the vehicle, a 63-year-old woman from Chicago, fortunately escaped unharmed.
Additionally, the impact of the collision resulted in the severing of a natural gas main, prompting a response from NICOR gas to address the leak and ensure the safety of the area. As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, the community remains in shock and mourning over the loss of a young life.
Conclusion
The untimely death of Diego Gonzalez Mendoza serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences that can arise from reckless actions on the road. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, it is imperative to reflect on the importance of responsible driving and the impact of one’s choices behind the wheel.
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