A driver was killed Thursday morning, August 20, 2026, in a two-vehicle crash on Illinois Route 255 near New Poag Road in Madison County, Illinois, according to Illinois State Police.
The fatal collision was reported at approximately 5:27 a.m. on the northbound side of Illinois 255 near the Wagon Wheel Road overpass, north of the New Poag Road exit. Troopers from Illinois State Police Troop 8 responded to the scene.
Police said the crash involved two vehicles, and one of the drivers was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities had not immediately released the victim’s identity or additional information about the circumstances of the collision.
Illinois 255 Crash Causes Road Closures
The fatal crash caused significant traffic restrictions on the highway. Northbound Illinois 255 was closed between New Poag Road and Old Alton Edwardsville Road, with motorists being diverted onto Wanda Road.
A separate crash was also reported on the southbound side of Illinois 255, where injuries were reported. State police additionally responded to a jackknifed tractor-trailer in the same corridor shortly afterward.
Southbound traffic was later able to resume, while the northbound lanes remained affected as investigators worked at the fatal crash scene.
Investigation Underway
Illinois State Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. Officials had not released the identity of the deceased driver or provided further details about possible contributing factors.
The Illinois 255 crash near New Poag Road remains a developing story. Further information about the victim, injuries and cause of the collision is expected as the investigation continues.