UPDATE: Two-vehicle crash east of downtown Champaign claims life of Indiana motorcyclist
Apr. 26—CHAMPAIGN — A two-vehicle collision on Thursday east of downtown Champaign has resulted in the death of a 19-year-old motorcyclist.
On Friday afternoon, Champaign County interim Coroner Stephen Thuney identified the victim as Andrew Wade Thomas of Avon, Ind.
Champaign police said they were dispatched at 10:06 p.m. to the intersection of University Avenue and Fourth Street for a report of an accident with injuries.
On scene, officers found Mr. Thomas, who had been thrown from his motorcycle in a collision with a car. He was taken to Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, where Thuney said he was pronounced dead at 10:38 p.m. in the emergency department.
The cause was listed as multiple traumatic injuries. An autopsy had been scheduled for Friday.
The initial investigation indicates that Mr. Thomas was heading east on University when a westbound car failed to yield while making a left turn onto Fourth. The driver of the car was cited at the scene for failure to yield to oncoming traffic.
Officers continue to canvass the surrounding area for video footage that may be of assistance.
Any resident or business in the nearby area with exterior surveillance camera systems is encouraged to notify the police department. The investigation remains ongoing.
Future updates may be provided as they become available.
Champaign police were assisted by the Illinois State Police in their investigation.
Anyone with additional information is asked to call Champaign police at 217-351-4545. Arrangements can be made for information to be shared privately. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may also submit tips to Champaign County Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477 or or via the free "P3 Tips" mobile app.
