On Sunday, July 20th, at approximately 3:10 PM, Hancock County emergency personnel responded to a two- vehicle head–on collision on Highway 96 near 2215 North in Nauvoo, Illinois.
The crash involved a 2011 black Chevrolet Traverse, operated by Robyn L. Villegas of Keokuk, Iowa, and a 1998 Toyota 4Runner, operated by Spencer Clark of North Dakota. Preliminary investigation indicates that Clark’s vehicle crossed into the southbound lane. In an attempt to avoid the collision, Villegas steered into the northbound lane, but both vehicles collided head–on after Clark reportedly swerved back toward his lane.
Spencer Clark was transported to Carthage Memorial Hospital and subsequently airlifted to OSF in Peoria due to the severity of his injuries.
Jessica Smith, of Phoenix, Arizona, a passenger in Villegas’ vehicle, was life–flighted directly from the scene to Iowa City in critical condition.
Tina M. Huston, of Mendon, also a passenger in Villegas‘ vehicle, was transported by ambulance to Carthage Memorial Hospital and later life–flighted to OSF in Peoria, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
A 15-year–old passenger, also from Villegas‘ vehicle, was transported to Carthage Memorial Hospital and then life–flighted to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield for further treatment.
Robyn L. Villegas was treated for minor injuries at Carthage Memorial Hospital.
The investigation is ongoing by the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office.
