LAKE ZURICH, Ill. – Authorities have identified the pedestrian who was struck and killed early Saturday morning at a busy Lake Zurich intersection as 59-year-old Casimir Ries. The fatal crash occurred around 12:40 a.m. at Route 12 and Deerpath Road, according to the Lake County Coroner’s Office. Officials said Ries was walking northbound through the intersection when he was hit.
Investigators reported that Ries was either in or near the marked crosswalk at the time of the collision. A 2018 Lexus SUV traveling eastbound on Route 12 struck him as he attempted to cross the roadway. Emergency responders were called immediately, but despite their efforts, Ries was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy later confirmed that he died of blunt force injuries caused by the impact.
The driver of the Lexus did not flee and remained at the scene to cooperate with law enforcement. Police have not released the driver’s identity, and as of the latest update, no citations or charges had been announced. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing as they work to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash.
The Lake Zurich Police Department is working alongside the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team to examine possible contributing factors. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, analyzing the SUV for mechanical issues, and considering conditions such as speed, visibility, and pedestrian lighting at the time of the incident. Officials have said that weather conditions do not appear to have played a role.
The intersection where the crash occurred is a well-traveled corridor connecting residential neighborhoods with shopping areas along Route 12. Community members have frequently raised concerns about pedestrian safety along the route, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is limited despite marked crosswalks. Ries’ death has reignited discussions about roadway safety and whether additional measures, such as enhanced lighting or pedestrian signals, are needed.
As neighbors and friends mourn the loss of a familiar face in the community, authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward. Police stressed that even small details could be crucial in piecing together what happened. For Ries’ family, the tragedy represents a sudden and painful loss. Local officials have extended condolences and pledged a thorough investigation to determine whether accountability is warranted.