Who Is Marianne Akers? Female Driver in Tragic Chatham, Illinois Crash That Killed Four Children

A heartbreaking car crash at a community after-school center in Chatham, Illinois, has claimed the lives of four young individuals, leaving the town in shock and grief.

The driver, now identified as Marianne Akers, 44, of Chatham, crashed her SUV through the YNOT After School Camp building on Monday afternoon, April 28.

Read more: Chatham After-School Car Crash: Remembering the Victims, Four Young Lives Lost

Marianne Akers - Female driver who crashed car into Illinois after-school center, killing four

The Incident: SUV Plows Through After-School Center

According to authorities and eyewitness reports, around 3:26 p.m., a silver SUV suddenly veered off the roadway, plowed through an open field, and smashed through the east wall of the building. The vehicle didn’t stop — it continued through the structure and exited from the west side before coming to a halt after hitting a power pole and fence.

Surveillance video confirms that the car did not brake or attempt to turn, suggesting either a deliberate act or a total loss of vehicle control. The nature of the incident has raised questions nationwide.

Victims: Four Lives Lost, Others Critically Injured

The Sangamon County Coroner identified the four victims as:​

• ​Ainsley Johnson, 8, of Chatham

• ​Kathryn Corley, 7, of Chatham

• ​Alma Buhnerkempe, 7, of Chatham

• ​Rylee Britton, 18, of Springfield​

All four were pronounced dead at the scene, with autopsies confirming that they died from multiple blunt force injuries sustained in the crash. ​

In addition to the fatalities, six other children were injured in the incident. One child remains in critical condition as of April 29, 2025. ​

Ainsley's grandfather Galen Johnson mourned her online with a photo of her in an adorable fancy dress outfit (left). Alma is pictured right with her brother

The vehicle, driven by 44-year-old Marianne Akers of Chatham, left the road, crossed a field, and crashed through the east side of the YNOT After School Camp building, exiting through the west side after striking multiple individuals inside. ​

The community of Chatham is mourning the loss of these young lives, with memorials and support services being organized to aid those affected by this tragedy.

Who Is Marianne Akers?

Marianne Akers, a 44-year-old resident of Chatham, Illinois, has been identified as the driver involved in the tragic incident at the YNOT After School Camp on April 28, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of four young individuals and injuries to six others.

School food service worker Marianne Akers was behind the wheel of a car that plowed through an after-school program and killed three young kids and a teen

Marianne Akers is a 44-year-old local resident of Chatham. She was the sole occupant of the vehicle and sustained no physical injuries in the crash. Police transported her to a hospital for medical and psychological evaluation. Authorities have confirmed she is not currently in custody.

Akers previously worked as a food service employee with the Ball-Chatham School District, concluding her tenure in 2022. She is also a mother of two teenagers—a son and a daughter. ​

Little is publicly known about Akers. She has no significant criminal record, and her motive remains unclear. Family members and neighbors described her as quiet and reserved, with no apparent ties to the YNOT center or known grievances with anyone involved.

Investigation: Was It Intentional?

Illinois State Police and Chatham Police are leading the investigation. So far, there is:

• No evidence of targeted intent

• No signs of mechanical failure

• No toxicology results released yet

Law enforcement officials stated the crash "does not appear to be an intentional act of violence," but are not ruling anything out. Investigators are reviewing Akers' medical history, digital devices, and possible mental health background.

The Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office is expected to review potential charges once the police conclude their preliminary findings. Charges could include vehicular homicide, reckless driving, or negligence resulting in death, depending on the results of the investigation.

Driver in Chatham, Illinois crash that killed 3 kids, 1 teen

Legal Outlook: Will Marianne Akers Face Charges?

Despite public outcry, Akers has not been arrested. Authorities explain that legal standards must be met before charges are filed. She is cooperating with investigators and has retained legal counsel.

A toxicology report and an assessment of her mental state at the time of the crash will be pivotal in determining the charges.

About YNOT After School Camp

The YNOT After School Camp is a well-regarded nonprofit center that offers programs for children aged 5–13 in the Chatham community. At the time of the crash, dozens of children were inside.

Jamie Loftus, the center’s founder, described the event as "the worst tragedy we’ve ever faced." In a public statement, Loftus added:

“These children were our family. We are mourning them as our own.”

Community in Mourning

Governor JB Pritzker and other state officials extended condolences. "Our hearts are broken," Pritzker said, emphasizing support for the victims’ families.

Local schools have canceled classes, and grief counselors have been made available. A memorial vigil is scheduled for Friday evening, and a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $200,000 for the victims' families in less than 24 hours.

Public Reaction

The public reaction has been one of anger, sorrow, and confusion. Many in Chatham are calling for more information, demanding accountability. Hashtags like #JusticeForYNOT and #ChathamStrong have trended on social media platforms, reflecting both grief and solidarity.

Local activist groups are also questioning mental health and road safety policies, urging officials to release bodycam footage and all surveillance materials.