Kewanee Police Chief Stephen Kijanowski released details Wednesday on an accident in which a semi-trailer truck struck two houses on East Second Street.
“A Win Supply Companies straight bed semi-truck was traveling eastbound in the 700 block of East Second Street (Route 34),” a report issued by the chief said. “At the intersection of East Second Street and North East Street, the vehicle exited the roadway, traveling through the front yard of a residence located in the 800 block of East Second Street. The truck continued its path eastbound, striking the corner of a neighboring residence, causing damage to its foundation and siding. The vehicle continued eastbound and collided with a second residence, coming to a stop while embedded in the structure.
Kijanowski reported that the first residence that was struck was occupied by one person, who was unharmed.
“The second residence, which was not occupied at the time and was currently being remodeled, was deemed unsafe due to the extensive damage,” the chief reported. “Consequently, the Kewanee Public Works Department demolished the structure to ensure safety. Ameren Illinois also responded promptly to disconnect utilities to the affected property.”
The driver of the semi-truck sustained multiple injuries and was transported from the scene by the Kewanee Fire Department to OSF Saint Luke Medical Center. From there, he was airlifted by life flight to OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
“The Kewanee Police Department is awaiting further details from OSF St. Francis Hospital regarding the driver’s condition before releasing the driver’s information,” Kijanowski wrote.
The Kewanee Police Department is continuing to investigate the factors leading up to the accident, the chief said, and he added, “No further details are available at this time, but updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
“The Kewanee Police Department and Kewanee Fire Department wish to extend their gratitude to Ameren, Kewanee Public Works, and Hodge’s Towing Service for their swift actions and collaboration in managing the situation,” Kijanowski concluded.
