CLINTON, Ill. — Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred Monday evening near Clinton. According to the DeWitt County Coroner’s Office, the driver has been identified as 29-year-old Thomas J. Lobano, a Clinton resident who tragically lost his life when his vehicle left the roadway along Route 54.
The accident happened as Lobano was traveling westbound toward Clinton when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle veered off the road and entered a wooded area on the north side of the highway. Emergency crews responded quickly, but despite their best efforts, Lobano was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 7:28 p.m. Authorities confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the crash.
The DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit are continuing to investigate the cause of the accident. Investigators are analyzing tire tracks, vehicle damage, and environmental factors such as road conditions, visibility, and potential mechanical issues. The coroner’s office said an autopsy and toxicology testing will be performed as part of standard procedure to determine whether any medical or chemical factors may have played a role.
Residents living near the crash site along Route 54 said they saw emergency lights and first responders arriving shortly after sunset. The stretch of highway where the collision occurred is known for being dark and lightly traveled at night, bordered by wooded areas that make recovery efforts difficult. Authorities used the incident to remind motorists to drive with extra caution on rural roads, especially after dark when visibility is limited and fatigue can set in.
Following the tragic news, the Clinton community has come together to honor Lobano’s memory. Friends, family, and coworkers described him as a kindhearted and dependable young man with a strong connection to his hometown. Many shared condolences on social media, expressing heartbreak over the sudden loss and offering prayers for his loved ones. “He was someone who would do anything to help a friend,” one acquaintance wrote.
As the investigation continues, officials have urged drivers to remain vigilant, always wear seatbelts, and obey speed limits — particularly on winding rural roads. While the official cause of the crash remains undetermined, authorities reaffirmed their commitment to a thorough investigation. For now, Clinton grieves the loss of Thomas J. Lobano, remembered as a beloved member of the community gone far too soon.