A grieving family is speaking out following a tragic incident on Chicago’s I-57 that claimed three lives, including their loved one. The collision occurred on the city’s South Side earlier this week, leaving the relatives of those involved seeking answers.
Ruben Lujano, one of the victims, was among those who lost their lives in the accident. As his family comes to terms with their loss, they are calling for a deeper understanding of the circumstances that led to the devastating crash.
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According to the family, Lujano was out of his vehicle, attempting to assist others after initially being involved in a crash on I-57. Witnesses report that a speeding car then struck and killed the 50-year-old grandfather, along with two other men, on his daughter’s birthday.
“My father’s commitment to helping others will always be a significant memory,” shared his daughter, Leylani Padilla. “My 30th birthday will forever be marked by this tragic event.”
What was meant to be a celebration has been overshadowed by the heartbreak of losing a cherished family member in such a sudden and tragic manner.
“It still feels surreal,” Padilla expressed. “I keep expecting him to walk through the door, but I know he won’t.”
Padilla is forced to change her weekend birthday plans to lay her late father to rest.
The 50-year-old was killed early Wednesday morning on Interstate 57 near 120th Street in Calumet Park. It happened after he got into a car crash while driving from work. He got out of his car to help others.
“Unfortunately, his kind heart put him in a situation,” Padilla said. “But, I know that he wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Then, witnesses told ABC7 a speeding car wasn’t far behind.
“They drove over the speed limit at an estimated 85, 100 miles per hour,” his sister Reyna Lujano said.
Illinois State Police said Ruben Lujano, 33-year-old Martese Williams, and another man who has yet to be identified were hit and killed on scene. At least five others were hurt as Lujano’s family demands answers.
“We’ve yet to have any information about what occurred, if anyone’s in custody,” Padilla said.
ABC7 has reached out to Illinois State Police to get an update on this case, but they still wouldn’t say what might’ve caused the deadly crash or if anyone could be charged. In fact, they say they are not releasing any more information, at this time, but are urging witnesses, especially those who might have dash camera footage of the crash, to come forward.
