The community of Chatham, Illinois, is mourning the loss of four young girls who were tragically killed on Monday afternoon when a vehicle crashed into the building of an after-school camp program. The incident occurred around 3:20 p.m. at the YNOT After School Camp, a program designed to offer support and enrichment to children in the area.
Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon released a statement on Tuesday identifying the victims as Rylee Britton, 18; Ainsley Johnson, 8; Alma Buhnerkempe, 7; and Kathryn Corley, 7. All four girls were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
This devastating loss has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Chatham community. Families, friends, and residents are left grappling with grief and questions about how such a senseless tragedy could have occurred in a place meant to be a haven for children.
Among the victims was 7-year-old Alma Buhnerkempe, a bright and spirited child remembered lovingly by her mother, Billie Buhnerkempe. Speaking to NBC News, Billie described Alma as “a ray of sunshine wherever she went.” She was known for her sweet and outgoing nature, a contagious silliness, and a deep love for her family and friends. Alma had a passion for sports, including soccer, basketball, and gymnastics. Her mother also shared that Alma had a younger brother with autism, and Alma was fiercely protective and supportive of him in the unique way that only a devoted big sister can be.
Eight-year-old Ainsley Johnson, affectionately nicknamed “Squirt” by her family, was described by her father, Todd Johnson, as “larger than life.” While he declined a formal interview, Todd confirmed her passing and said she would leave a lasting void in their hearts.
Details about Rylee Britton and Kathryn Corley have not yet been publicly shared by their families, who are understandably devastated and seeking privacy during this unimaginable time.
In addition to the four lives lost, six other individuals were injured and taken to Hospital Sisters Health System. Five of those injured were admitted to the children’s hospital, while one person was treated and later released.
According to Illinois State Police, the vehicle that caused the crash was driven by 44-year-old Marianne Akers, a resident of Chatham. Investigators reported that Akers drove her SUV through a field and directly into the building at a high speed, with no visible attempt to slow down or change direction. Toxicology tests have been conducted, but results are still pending. As of now, Akers has not been taken into custody.
Jamie Loftus, founder of YNOT Outdoors, expressed deep sorrow and heartbreak in a public statement. Referring to the incident as an “unforetold tragedy,” Loftus emphasized the profound grief being experienced by the community. He noted that the SUV was captured on security footage traveling at a high speed toward the building, describing the scene as inexplicably devastating.
“I cannot gather the words to express much of anything that will make sense in print,” Loftus wrote. “However, I do know that our families who suffered loss and injury today are hurting very, very badly. They are friends, and their kids are like our kids.”
As the investigation continues, the focus for many remains on supporting the grieving families and honoring the memory of the young lives lost. Community members have been encouraged to keep the victims and their loved ones in their thoughts and prayers, while also offering space and privacy as they navigate an overwhelming period of sorrow.