By Crash News Writer 
Elwood, IL (December 20, 2025) — A devastating head-on collision injured four people—two critically—on Thursday evening, December 18, along the 17000 block of Manhattan Road in Elwood, Illinois.
According to the Illinois State Police, the crash occurred just before 5 p.m. and involved two vehicles with significant front-end damage. First responders from the Manhattan Fire Protection District arrived within minutes and confirmed one vehicle had a sole occupant while the second carried three. Emergency crews extricated three of the four individuals from the wreckage.
All victims were initially taken to Silver Cross Hospital, with one person later airlifted due to the severity of their injuries. The other two suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Multiple fire departments provided mutual aid at the scene and helped cover other emergency calls during the incident.
The Will County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation. Manhattan Road was closed at Ridge Road for several hours.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident Today
In the aftermath of a severe head-on crash, victims and families often face physical, emotional, and financial hardship. If you or a loved one were hurt in a car accident near Elwood, it’s important to know your rights and understand how to pursue compensation for hospital care, lost wages, and long-term recovery.
Start by reviewing car accident laws in Illinois to learn more about your legal options. Obtaining the car accident report and working with professionals who understand local laws can be critical to building your case.
Whether you are dealing with a car accident near me or a more complex collision, experienced legal help is essential. Those affected by a car accident near Elwood should act quickly to gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and file necessary claims.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The facts in this story are based on official reports from local authorities and may change as the investigation continues.
- The identities of those injured have not been publicly released at this time. Updates may follow as officials notify families.
- Road closures around Manhattan Road and Ridge Road may remain in place while investigators complete their work.
- Toxicology reports and any potential charges are still pending.
Helpful accident resources in Illinois are available to guide crash victims and their families through this challenging time. We also recommend reading our frequently asked questions in Illinois for guidance on next steps after a serious vehicle collision.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Facts may change as new updates emerge. Please refer to our full disclaimer.
Call an experienced Illinois personal injury lawyer today to protect your rights and begin the process of seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.