Mother and Father of 5 Killed in 7-Car Crash in Chicago

A mother and father with five children were killed in a seven-car crash on Monday, April 28, in Illinois.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed Melissa Ann Lane, 49, and Brett Lane, 51, of Hinsdale, Ill., were killed in the deadly crash, per NBC 5 Chicago. At least three other people were also injured. All five crash victims were brought to nearby hospitals, but the Lanes were later pronounced dead.

The crash occurred at approximately 2 p.m. local time on Friday, April 25. The accident happened at the intersection of 47th Street and Willow Springs Road in La Grange, a Chicago suburb.

La Grange officers and the Major Case Assistance Team’s crash investigation unit are still actively investigating the cause of the major accident, La Grange police said in a statement.

“While this investigation is on-going, preliminary findings have revealed that a white SUV was observed traveling at a high-rate of speed while northbound on Willow Springs Road. The white SUV struck several vehicles within and near the intersection of 47th Street and Willow Springs Road, including the vehicle occupied by Brett and Melissa Lane,” the statement read.

The Lanes were parents to five children, Simon, Colin, Quinten, Emily, and James, according to an obituary from Sullivan Family Home.

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“Brett and Melissa were pillars of their community. Strong, fearless role models that touched the hearts of many. Brett had an infectious spirit, a love of innovation, and an unwavering work ethic. Melissa was a positive beacon of life and hope; always lifting up those around her,” the obituary reads.

Melissa Ann was from Michigan and Brett was from California. The couple met while attending graduate school at Northwestern University, studying engineering.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, April 29, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time at Sullivan Funeral Home. The funeral services will proceed on Wednesday, April 30. A funeral mass will be held at St. Isaac Jogues Church before the memorial in Hinsdale.