Authorities have released the names of the three people who tragically died in a series of crashes on Interstate 57 earlier this week. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victims as 50-year-old Ruben F. Lujano, 33-year-old Martese Williams, and 29-year-old Daekwon Cunningham. The heartbreaking events unfolded during the early morning hours and have left families devastated as investigators work to understand exactly what happened on the busy roadway.
According to relatives of Lujano, he had just finished his shift at work and was heading home when he became involved in an initial collision near the 120th Street area in Calumet Park. Family members said that after the crash, he stepped out of his vehicle to check on others who might have needed help. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a fast-moving vehicle approaching shortly afterward, but the exact series of impacts remains unclear. Investigators say they are still reviewing evidence to determine how the chain reaction of crashes unfolded.
Illinois State Police confirmed that all three victims were struck and pronounced dead at the scene. Along with the fatalities, officers reported several injuries, with at least five people receiving medical attention following the incident. No updates have been given on their conditions, and authorities say more information will be shared when the investigation allows. Because multiple vehicles were involved, officials say the process of analyzing the crash will take time.
Lujano’s family described him as a caring and hardworking man who often went out of his way to help others. They believe his decision to step out of his car after the first crash showed the kind of person he was—someone who put the safety of others before his own. Loved ones have called for more transparency from investigators, saying they need answers to understand how such a tragedy could occur on a roadway he traveled daily. The families of Williams and Cunningham are also grieving deeply as they try to cope with the sudden loss of their loved ones.
Officials have not commented on whether anyone involved may face charges. Illinois State Police said they are withholding further details to protect the integrity of the investigation. They explained that major crash investigations require collecting witness statements, reconstructing the timeline, reviewing physical evidence, and examining any available video recordings. Authorities are urging anyone who was driving in the area or who may have dashcam footage to come forward, as such evidence could be critical in uncovering the truth.
As the investigation continues, families and community members are coming together to support one another. They hope that clear answers will emerge in the coming weeks to help them understand what took place and prevent similar tragedies in the future. For now, they are focused on honoring the memories of Ruben Lujano, Martese Williams, and Daekwon Cunningham—three lives lost far too soon.
