FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: ISP District 10

March 28, 2018 217-867-2050

Tracy_Lillard@isp.state.il.us

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE ARE SEEKING ASSISTANCE IN

FATAL HIT AND RUN INVESTGATION

UPDATE: Zone 5 Investigations, ISP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit

and District 10 Patrol are still investigating the fatal hit and run crash
on March 21, 2018. During the course of the investigation, it is
suspected that Francis C. Edelen could have also been struck by a
passenger vehicle or lower profile vehicle. This vehicle would have
sustained front end damage including, but not limited to, hood,
windshield, and roof. It is then believed he was subsequently ran over
by a higher profile vehicle such as a sport utility vehicle, minivan, or
pick-up truck.

We are also seeking to speak with any drivers who swerved to avoid
the scene. Tire marks indicate a vehicle took evasive action
approaching the incident. We are still seeking all drivers or witnesses
as previously listed in the initial press release.

Please contact Zone 5 Investigations at 217-278-5004. Substantial

information may lead to a cash reward.

Pesotum, IL – The Illinois State Police is asking for assistance in locating the
offending vehicle or vehicles that were involved in a fatal traffic crash on I-57
southbound near Rantoul, Illinois at milepost 253.5. The pedestrian struck
and killed was a 21 year old University of Illinois student and wrestler, Francis
C. Edelen, from Manhattan, Illinois.

On March 21, 2018, at approximately 9:37 pm, Illinois State Police District
10 was notified of a two vehicle crash with injuries on I-57 southbound at
milepost 253.5 which is approximately three miles north of Rantoul. Upon
arrival it was determined the driver of one of the vehicles, Mr. Edelen, left the
scene of the crash on foot for an unknown reason. Approximately 2/10 of a
mile south of the first crash location, Mr. Edelen was struck and killed by an
unknown vehicle or vehicles in the right lane of traffic.

Preliminary information gathered at the scene by the Illinois State Police

Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit revealed Mr. Edelen may have been
initially struck by a large vehicle, possibly a truck-tractor semi-trailer
combination. The offending vehicle or vehicles left the scene.

A witness observed three vehicles stopped on the southbound shoulder in

close proximity to the body of Mr. Edelen. Those vehicles were described
as a green car, a white SUV, and an unknown third vehicle. As the witness
pulled over to the shoulder these three vehicles drove away.

Illinois State Police Zone 5 Investigations is seeking any information

regarding the drivers and/or passengers of these three vehicles, as they left
prior to speaking with the police. Any information provided would aid in the
investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Illinois State Police Zone 5

Investigations Tip Line at (217) 278-5004.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. Any updates will be provided

when available. There is no further information at this time.

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