6 injured in 2-vehicle crash in rural Benton, IL

BENTON, Ill. (KBSI) – Six people were injured in a two-vehicle crash in rural Benton, Illinois on Wednesday.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a two-vehicle crash near the intersection of South Stuyvesant Street and Summer Road in rural Benton around 8:15 p.m. on June 19.

Numerous injuries were reported.

Deputies say a preliminary investigation revealed that a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling east on Summer Road approaching the intersection of S. Stuyvesant Street.

A 2007 Toyota Camry was northbound on S. Stuyvesant Street and proceeded through the intersection at Summer Road.

Deputies say the driver of the Silverado failed to stop at the intersection and struck the Camry near the driver’s side door of the vehicle.

The truck had five male juveniles in it.

Lance A. Jerkins, 18, of Benton was the driver and only occupant of the Camry.

Deputies say six people were taken (three by Air Evac and three by ambulance) to area and regional hospitals with significant injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

The Ewing-Northern Fire Department, Benton Fire Department, West City Fire Department, West Frankfort Fire Department, Abbott-AMR, United Medical Response, Air Evac and the Benton Police Department assisted the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.