Chicago crash: Family of Ruben Lujano demanding answers after 3 killed, 5 injured in I-57 crashes on South Side
Share this @internewscast.com

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.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

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.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
US military strikes 5 more alleged drug boats, killing 8 and possibly leaving survivors amid Venezuela pressure campaign

US Military Targets Drug Vessels: Strikes Intensify Amid Venezuela Tensions

WASHINGTON — The U.S. military announced on Wednesday that it had targeted…
Fire at Swiss resort bar on New Year’s leaves dozens feared dead, 100 hurt

Devastating Fire at Swiss Resort Bar on New Year’s Results in Dozens Feared Dead, 100 Injured

By JAMEY KEATEN, STEFANIE DAZIO, and JOHN LEICESTER A devastating fire erupted…
MS NOW's Lemire: Some MN Fraud Probes Began Under Biden, But Trump Wants to Change Subject

MS NOW’s Lemire Reports: Minnesota Fraud Investigations Initiated During Biden Era, Yet Trump Seeks to Shift Focus

During Wednesday’s edition of “MS NOW Reports,” Jonathan Lemire, a co-host and…
Nuggets dealt another injury blow with Jonas Valanciunas out with calf strain

Denver Nuggets Face Setback as Jonas Valanciunas Sidelined with Calf Strain Injury

The Denver Nuggets are facing a growing list of injuries. Center Jonas…
Babies born in 2026: Chicago-area hospitals welcome first New Year's babies

Chicago Hospitals Celebrate Arrival of 2026’s First New Year’s Babies

In the early hours of New Year’s Day, Chicago-area hospitals celebrated the…
Top-seeded Indiana routs Alabama 38-3 for its first Rose Bowl victory, roaring into CFP semifinals

Indiana Triumphs Over Alabama 38-3, Secures Historic First Rose Bowl Win and Advances to CFP Semifinals

By GREG BEACHAM PASADENA — Fernando Mendoza showcased his prowess with three…
Repeat offender truck driver charged with bank robbery after claiming C-4 explosives, firing on officers: feds

Repeat Offender Truck Driver Faces Federal Charges for Alleged Bank Robbery and C-4 Threat

A North Carolina truck driver with a criminal history has been slapped…
Singer Pink spends New Year's Eve in hospital

Pop Icon Pink Rings in New Year with Unexpected Hospital Stay

On Wednesday, the pop sensation P!nk, known offstage as Alecia Beth Moore,…
Amazon Prime offers holiday gas deal: How to redeem the perk

Surprise Amazon Checks Arrive: Find Out Why They’re Landing in Your Mailbox

Recent reports reveal that Amazon has been sending checks to some of…
Short on starters, Nets lean on youth in 120-96 to Rockets

Nets Rely on Young Talent in 120-96 Victory Over Rockets

In their matchup against the Houston Rockets, the Brooklyn Nets saw two…
US dollar posts worst year since 2017 as Fed turmoil, tariffs bite

US Dollar Faces Steep Decline: 2017 Levels Resurged Amid Federal Reserve Challenges and Tariff Impacts

The US dollar closed the year experiencing its steepest decline since 2017,…
Mangione, Robinson, Reiner and more: Major court cases set to dominate 2026

2026’s Legal Showdowns: Key Court Cases Featuring Mangione, Robinson, and Reiner

As the calendar turns to 2026, the court docket continues to evolve…