8-Year-Old Dies, Bringing Death Toll In IL Day Camp Crash To 5: Authorities

SPRINGFIELD, IL — An 8-year-old boy has died more than a month after he was hurt in a crash that killed three other children and an 18-year-old when a car plowed through an after-school camp downstate, authorities said.

Bradley Lund of Springfield was pronounced dead shortly before 6 a.m. Monday at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield after suffering multiple blunt force injuries in the April 28 crash at YNOT After School Camp in Chatham, according to Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon.

"Bradley was known for his bright smile, contagious laughter, and kind spirit. He delighted in the simple joys of childhood—building intricate creations with Legos and Magna-Tiles, drawing imaginative scenes, exploring the worlds of Dog Man books, and playing video games that brought his creative mind to life," his obituary read, going on to say that Bradley "gave the gift of life to others through organ donation—his light continues to shine in those he helped heal."

The collision occurred when 44-year-old Marianne Akers’ vehicle left the road, traveling 1,300 feet through a field before crashing into a building, crossing a gravel road and coming to rest against a pole and fence, officials have said.

Also killed in the crash were Ainsley Johnson, 8, of Chatham; Rylee Britton, 18, of Springfield; Kathryn Corley, 7, of Chatham; and Alma Buhnerkempe, 7, of Chatham. Six other children were taken to area hospitals for injuries.

Police have said Akers may have suffered a medical emergency leading up to the crash and that there was no evidence of a targeted attack or intoxication.

Shortly after the collision, Akers’ attorney, W. Scott Hanken, told ABC 20 that his client suffered a seizure driving home from work, had no memory of what happened and was devastated by the tragedy.

The incident remains under investigation by the Sangamon County coroner and the Illinois State Police, who have not announced charges against Akers.

According to several news outlets, Akers previously worked for the Illinois State Police, as well as in a school cafeteria at Ball-Chatham School District. At the time of the crash, she was employed by the Illinois Department of Transportation as an office assistant for the Bureau of Business Services.