Maria Perez dies in DUI accident on Interstate 94

Mazda SUV struck the rear of a tractor-trailer near milepost 11.75 in Gurnee

May 23, 2026 | Gurnee, IL

What happened in the crash?

A suspected DUI crash on westbound Interstate 94 near milepost 11.75 claimed the life of a passenger early on May 23.

Maria Conchita Perez, 35, died after a Mazda SUV struck the rear of a tractor-trailer on Interstate 94 near milepost 11.75 in Gurnee.

Illinois State Police responded around 5:07 a.m. after a Mazda SUV struck the rear of a tractor-trailer between Illinois 120 and O'Plaine Road. The SUV sustained heavy damage and came to rest across the roadway.

• Paramedics treated occupants at the scene.
• An unconscious female passenger was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died.
• The tractor-trailer driver was uninjured.
• The victim was identified as Maria Conchita Perez, 35, of Waukegan.
• The 29-year-old female SUV driver faces pending charges after a breath alcohol concentration of 0.146, speeding, and phone distraction were noted.
• The investigation remains active.

Why do these accidents happen?

Impaired driving continues to rank among the leading contributors to fatal roadway incidents nationwide.

“Drunken and drugged drivers are subject to criminal charges following an accident or collision that causes harm or kills another person. Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party.”

— Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.

Key takeaways

• National Safety Council data shows roughly 10 percent of fatal automobile accidents involve drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications.
• Such incidents represent the second-leading cause of automobile fatalities in the United States.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, families may pursue wrongful death claims seeking damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident. We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”

— Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

Analyst takeaways

• Prompt legal review can clarify available options after a fatal crash.
• Coordination with investigators supports the protection of family interests.
• Civil remedies exist independently of any criminal proceedings.

Accident Statistics

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