By Crash News Writer 
Clinton County, IL (August 19, 2025) – A dramatic rescue effort unfolded after a car accident involving a wrong-way driver left a mother trapped inside a burning vehicle. The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office reported the crash occurred on the night of Monday, August 18.
News sources show that 50-year-old Tina Schoenfelder was a passenger in the vehicle, which was driven by her 16-year-old son. Deputies said another car traveling the wrong way struck their vehicle, forcing it into a ditch and igniting flames. Schoenfelder sustained serious injuries, while her son escaped with only minor injuries thanks to the help of a good Samaritan.
Body camera video captured first responders rushing to the burning vehicle, extinguishing flames as they worked to reach Schoenfelder. A deputy ultimately climbed inside and pulled her to safety, a move witnesses say saved her life. She was transported to St. Louis University Hospital, where she continues to recover.
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Car accidents involving reckless drivers can cause devastating injuries and life-altering consequences. Victims like Tina Schoenfelder face long recoveries, medical expenses, and emotional trauma. Taking legal action after such incidents is important to ensure accountability and financial support for ongoing treatment. Consulting with an attorney can help victims understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and secure compensation for medical costs and lost wages. For Illinois residents, learning more about car accident laws in Illinois may help guide the process. Many people search for car accident near me when seeking immediate legal guidance, which can connect them with attorneys familiar with local courts. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident near me, it is essential to act quickly to protect your rights. Early action can make a difference in building a strong case, especially when evidence and witness accounts are fresh. Families often begin with a search for car accident near me to find attorneys who understand local laws. Taking prompt steps after a car accident near me ensures that victims are not left to handle financial and legal challenges alone.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The details in this article are based on reports from local authorities and are subject to updates as the investigation continues.
- The identities of all individuals involved have not been released in full pending confirmation by authorities.
- Additional information, including toxicology results or possible charges for the wrong-way driver, will be provided as it becomes available.
- Drivers in the area can find information about traffic impacts or road closures through local officials or traffic advisory services.
Residents seeking clarity about their options may review frequently asked questions in Illinois for helpful information. Support for families impacted by collisions is also available through accident resources in Illinois.
The content of this story is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. All details are based on publicly available information at the time of publication and may change as new facts emerge. Readers are encouraged to consult legal professionals if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar situation. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this information. Learn more with our disclaimer.