On Sept. 23, the Illinois State Police responded to a crash on Route 71 at Mennie Lane in the village of Mark. At approximately 7:10 a.m., a white 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Thomas Hirkala, 32, of Ladd was traveling south on Mennie Lane. Hirkala stopped at the intersection of Mennie Lane and Route 71, then proceeded to turn left to travel east on Route 71.
A black 1998 Kenworth truck-tractor with semi-trailer, operated by Terrence Chambers, 60, of Lostant was traveling west on Route 71, approaching Mennie Lane. Hirkala’s vehicle was struck by Chambers’ vehicle, causing the truck-tractor with semi-trailer to overturn and spill its load of corn.
Hirkala received minor injuries in the crash, and was transported to an area hospital. A passenger in Hirkala’s vehicle, Jamyson Wortz, 25, of Peru refused treatment at the scene. Chambers also refused medical treatment at the scene.
Hirkala was issued a citation for failing to yield to traffic at a stop intersection. The scene was cleared at approximately 9:40 a.m.