CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Authorities have identified the man who died following a serious vehicle crash in Urbana earlier this week. Champaign County Coroner Laurie Brauer confirmed that Hector Santiago-Cardona, 35, of Champaign, was fatally injured in the collision and later pronounced dead at Carle Foundation Hospital.
The crash occurred on the evening of September 10 in the 2200 block of Cunningham Avenue. Emergency crews responded quickly and transported Santiago-Cardona to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced at 7:57 p.m.
An autopsy has been scheduled to help determine the exact cause of death. Officials say results, along with toxicology testing, will be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Urbana Police Department, Illinois State Police, and the Champaign County Coroner’s Office are working together to piece together what led to the collision. Investigators have not yet released full details on the circumstances of the crash or whether other vehicles were involved.
News of Santiago-Cardona’s passing has struck a painful chord in the Champaign community, where friends and family described him as a kindhearted individual with deep local ties. Many have taken to social media to share condolences and prayers for his loved ones.
This tragedy comes amid a string of serious traffic incidents in the area, including a fatal crash involving a motorcyclist and a semi-truck in Urbana just days earlier. Police have renewed calls for drivers to remain alert and exercise caution, especially on busy corridors like Cunningham Avenue.
Authorities said further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
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