Schaumburg, IL – Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down Westbound I-290 at Higgins Road
SCHAUMBURG, IL — A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 290 has claimed at least one life and caused significant traffic disruptions on Tuesday afternoon, July 29, 2025, according to the Illinois State Police. The fatal incident occurred around 1:40 p.m. on the westbound lanes of I-290 near Higgins Road, an area commonly traveled by commuters and commercial vehicles.
Preliminary reports indicate that four vehicles were involved in the collision, including at least one semi-truck and a passenger van, which appeared to be wedged underneath the semi in a violent impact. The extent of the wreckage prompted an immediate emergency response and led to a large-scale traffic shutdown.
One individual was pronounced dead at the scene, though Illinois State Police have not yet released the identity of the deceased or confirmed whether there were additional injuries. Emergency crews and crash reconstruction teams are continuing their investigation, and details regarding how the crash unfolded are still being gathered.
By 4:00 p.m., Chopper 7 from ABC7 Chicago captured aerial footage showing a massive traffic backup stretching for miles. The scene remained active for hours as investigators worked to determine the cause of the crash. As of late afternoon, four lanes of westbound I-290 remained closed, severely impacting traffic patterns and prompting detours throughout the Schaumburg area.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are urging drivers to avoid the area and find alternate routes as the investigation and cleanup efforts continue into the evening hours. The Illinois Department of Transportation and local law enforcement agencies are assisting with traffic redirection and scene management.
No further information has been released regarding the individuals involved in the crash or the conditions of the other motorists. It is unclear at this time whether weather, speed, driver distraction, or vehicle malfunction contributed to the crash.
A Community on Alert
This fatal crash has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly for those who regularly travel the busy corridor between Schaumburg and the greater Chicago area. Motorists expressed concern over the safety of the intersection, which has seen its share of serious accidents in recent years due to high traffic volumes and complex merging patterns.
Illinois State Police have not issued a formal statement beyond confirming the fatality and number of vehicles involved but emphasized that a full crash reconstruction is underway and more information will be released as the case progresses.
Safety Reminders
In the wake of the accident, authorities are reminding drivers to:
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Always maintain a safe following distance.
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Reduce speed in high-traffic or construction zones.
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Avoid distractions, especially when approaching interchanges or merging lanes.
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Stay alert and cautious around commercial trucks and large vehicles.
A Developing Story
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available from the Illinois State Police and local officials.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around I-290 westbound at Higgins Road around 1:40 p.m. is urged to contact ISP District 15 to assist in the ongoing investigation.