JEFFERSON CO., Ill. - Two septuagenarians collided last night north of the city of Mt. Vernon after one attempted a prohibited turn-around.
Illinois State Police in District 13 DuQuoin advise that the incident occurred last night (Wednesday, October 10) at 9:05 p.m. on Interstate 57, a mile north of the Interstate 64 split north of Mt. Vernon.
Preliminary investigative details indicate that a pickup truck being driven by Robert Bell, 71, of Vandalia, was parked on the right shoulder of Interstate 57 northbound, but facing the wrong way. Bell attempted to merge into the right lane of traffic to turn around, but was struck by an SUV being driven by Thomas Deien, 74, of Centralia.
Following the impact, the SUV overturned, landing on the driver's side.
Jefferson Rural Fire Department was called to extricate those in the SUV, including Deien's passenger, Brenda Deien, 58 of Centralia. The Deiens were transported to SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon for treatment of major injuries, but Mr. Deien was later airlifted to St. Louis University Hospital. His condition is unknown at this time. Bell, also, was taken to SSM Health Good Sam, for treatment of minor injuries.
Apparently, no citations have been issued.