Vehicle traveling east in westbound lanes struck car in Aurora
May 10, 2026 | Aurora, IL
Illinois State Police investigating Fatal Collision Involving UIC Track Star Early Sunday
Sariyah Watson, 21, was killed when a vehicle traveling the wrong direction struck her car on Interstate 88 in Aurora.
What happened in the crash?
A 21-year-old University of Illinois Chicago sprinter died early Sunday when a wrong-way driver struck her vehicle head-on on Interstate 88.
According to the Illinois State Police, Sariyah Watson was traveling westbound around 4 a.m. when a 32-year-old Melrose Park man driving eastbound in the westbound lanes collided with her car. Watson and her 21-year-old female passenger were killed. The other driver also died in the crash.
Relatives said Watson was heading to DeKalb to spend Mother’s Day with her mom. She was a junior majoring in sports management and a standout on the UIC women’s track and field team.
The UIC athletic department posted on Facebook: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Sariyah Watson, a junior member of our women’s track & field program. Sariyah was a cherished member of our Flames Family, and our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, teammates, and coaches during this incredibly difficult time.”
Key details at a glance
- Date and time: Early Sunday morning, May 10, approximately 4 a.m.
- Location: Interstate 88 westbound, Aurora, Illinois
- Vehicles: Two vehicles were involved in a head-on collision
- Fatalities: Three people total
- Investigation: Illinois State Police
Why do wrong-way crashes happen?
The Federal Highway Administration reports that roughly 400 people die each year in wrong-way collisions on U.S. highways. Most result from driver error, including impaired driving, distraction, or confusion at exits and ramps.
| Cause | Percentage of Cases (FHWA) | Common Contributing Factors |
|---|
| Driver impairment | About 40% | Alcohol, drugs |
| Distraction | About 25% | Cell phones, fatigue |
| Roadway confusion | About 20% | Poor signage, complex interchanges |
| Other/unknown | About 15% | Medical events, vehicle malfunction |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, families often benefit from an early independent review of the crash scene and available evidence.
“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash. Your lawyer has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct driver background checks, locate witnesses to the crash, and review applicable insurance coverage. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a family during this difficult time, while protecting their legal rights.”
— Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident. We understand what families face, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their client's legal rights and best interests are protected.”
— Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal
What families should know after a fatal crash
- Preserve all documents and photographs from the scene
- Request a copy of the official police report
- Consult counsel experienced in multi-vehicle fatality cases
- Track all funeral and related expenses for potential claims
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