Oak Forest Grad, Illini Wrestler Killed In Hit-And-Run Accident

CHAMPAIGN, IL — A University of Illinois wrestler and Oak Forest High School graduate was killed in a hit-and-run accident following a two-car crash Wednesday night, the college said Thursday. Francis Edelen, 21, was a redshirted sophomore and business major at the school.

"This is shocking news for our team and coaching staff as no words can truly reflect the emotions that we are going through at this time," Illinois wrestling coach Jim Heffernan said in a statement. "Francis was a productive member of our program. We are extremely saddened by this news. We just released this news to our team, so the healing process after the loss of a teammate and friend has just begun."

According to Illinois State Police, Edelen was the driver of one of the vehicles in a two-car accident at around 9:40 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, on Interstate 57, north of Champaign, near Rantoul, Illinois. He was able to leave the scene of the accident on foot, and police believe he might have been trying to flag down help.

Edelen had walked a short distance south of the accident site when he was fatally hit by an unknown vehicle. The vehicle — which police describe as possibly being a semi-tractor trailer or other large vehicle — fled the scene after striking Edelen.

WATCH: Illinois State Police discuss the fatal hit-and-run accident that killed Francis Edelen:

A witness told police that three vehicles were seen near Edelen's body after he was hit. They were described as a green car, a white SUV and an unknown third vehicle, police said. As the witness pulled over to the shoulder, all three vehicles pulled away.

Police are looking for any information concerning the three vehicles seen at the accident site, and the incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information should call state police at 217-867-2050.

Edelen was the fourth oldest of 10 children, according to his wrestling bio. His brother, Harper, is two-time national wrestling champion.

"Our hearts are broken by the news of Francis Edelen's passing," Illinois athletics director Josh Whitman said in a statement. "Losing someone so early in his life when he has so much yet to experience and to give is a tragedy of the highest order. Our thoughts are with Francis' family and friends. We will come together and draw strength from each other as an Illini family during this difficult time."

Francis Edelen, 21 (Photo via University of Illinois)