PEORIA, Ill. – A teenager has been cited in a fatal crash that occurred Monday afternoon in Bartonville.
Peoria County Sheriff Brian Asbell said a 16-year-old driver, from Groveland, was driving too fast for conditions just after 1:15 p.m. in the 5000 block of Airport Road.
The 16-year-old, who suffered minor injuries in the crash, could face additional charges once an investigation is completed and reviewed by the State’s Attorney’s Office.
Meanwhile, Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood said 56-year-old Jamie Lynn Harper of Tucson, AZ suffered blunt force trauma and likely died instantly.
Harwood said the woman in town visiting family was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities determined the vehicle was traveling southbound when it crossed the center line and off the roadway, south of the intersection with Dietrich Ln, traveling several hundred feet before it finally stopped.
“The car was up on its side, right next to a huge pine tree,” said Harwood.
“Several people came out with chainsaws and started cutting limbs so they could get to the car. So, it was on its passenger’s side.
“The impact with the tree actually tipped the whole tree over and its roots were out of the ground.”
The vehicle reportedly encountered both trees and mailboxes in its path.
Asbell said a 15-year-old passenger suffered significant, but not life-threatening, injuries.
