Marianne Akers, Former ISP Employee, Identified as Driver in Deadly After-School Camp Crash

In a tragic incident on April 28, 2025, four young lives were lost when a vehicle barreled into a building used for an after-school camp in Chatham, Illinois. The driver of the car, identified as Marianne Akers, 44, of Chatham, was a former employee of the Illinois State Police (ISP). This shocking crash has left a community grieving and searching for answers.

The Accident: A Horrifying Scene

The incident occurred late in the afternoon on Monday, April 28, when Akers’ vehicle left the road. For reasons that remain unclear, the car veered off course, traveling through a field before crashing into the east side of the YNOT After School Camp building on Breckenridge Road. The vehicle continued through the building, hitting several people before exiting the other side.

Four victims, all children, were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims were identified as Kathryn Corley, 7; Alma Buhnerkempe, 7; Ainsley Johnson, 8; and Rylee Britton, 18. In addition to the fatalities, six other children were injured and taken to nearby hospitals. One of them remains in critical condition.

The Illinois State Police, along with local authorities, are investigating the cause of the crash. While they have not ruled out any potential causes, they have stated that the crash does not appear to be a targeted attack or an intentional act.

Marianne Akers: Former ISP Employee

Marianne Akers, the driver involved in this tragic crash, had worked for the Illinois State Police for over a decade. She joined the ISP in June 2006 and remained with the force until her departure in August 2018. The Illinois State Police confirmed her employment but has not provided additional details about her time with the department.

At the time of the crash, Akers was not in custody. Authorities stated that she was uninjured in the accident and was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. The circumstances surrounding the crash are under investigation, but no charges have been filed against her at this time.

Community Reacts to the Tragedy

The tragic loss of four young lives has left the Chatham community in shock. Many residents, including Brandy Fletcher, were seen leaving flowers and other tributes at the crash site. The emotional impact of this accident has been felt across the town as people try to come to terms with the loss.

Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed his condolences to the families affected by the crash and reassured the public that local authorities were closely monitoring the investigation. He also urged residents to support one another during this difficult time.

The YNOT After School Camp, where the victims were located at the time of the crash, has also released a statement requesting prayers and support for the families of the victims and their staff. The tragedy has not only shaken the immediate families but also the larger Chatham community, as they seek ways to support one another.

What Happened?

As the investigation continues, authorities are piecing together the events that led to the deadly crash. Akers’ car left the road for unknown reasons and traveled through a field before crashing into the building used for the after-school camp. Once inside, the vehicle struck multiple individuals before exiting the other side of the building.

At this time, investigators are focused on determining what caused the car to veer off the road. It is unclear whether Akers had a medical emergency, if there was a mechanical failure, or if another factor contributed to the crash. State Police have confirmed that the incident does not appear to have been an intentional act.

The Victims: Remembering the Children

The loss of four young children in such a tragic manner has left a deep wound in the community. The children who lost their lives were just beginning their journey in life. Kathryn Corley, Alma Buhnerkempe, Ainsley Johnson, and Rylee Britton were all described as bright, joyful individuals who brought happiness to those around them.

In addition to the fatalities, six other children were injured in the crash. The community continues to rally around those affected by the accident, offering support, prayers, and assistance as the families cope with this unspeakable loss.

Investigating the Cause

At this stage, it is unclear what led to the crash. Authorities have ruled out the possibility of a targeted attack, but the investigation is ongoing. The Illinois State Police are working closely with the Sangamon County Coroner and the Chatham Police Department to determine whether a medical emergency, mechanical failure, or another factor caused Akers to lose control of the vehicle.

The crash serves as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that the authorities will find answers that can provide some closure to the victims’ families.

Conclusion: A Heartbreaking Tragedy

The tragic crash in Chatham, Illinois, has left the community in mourning. Marianne Akers, the former ISP employee who was driving the vehicle, has not been taken into custody, and authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. The loss of four young lives is a heart-wrenching reminder of the fragility of life, and the families and friends of the victims are in the thoughts and prayers of many. The people of Chatham have come together to support one another in the wake of this devastating event.

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