Edward V. Gilbert Charged with Multiple Felonies Following High-Impact Crash on Dan Ryan Expressway

CHICAGO, IL — Edward V. Gilbert, 29, of Chicago, is facing multiple felony charges following a serious early-morning crash on Sunday, June 16, that involved a state-operated vehicle on the Dan Ryan Expressway. The incident, which occurred in the southbound lanes of Interstate 94 near 83rd Street, left two people hospitalized and has prompted a criminal investigation by the Illinois State Police.

The Crash

At approximately 2:24 a.m., an Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) truck was operating with its lights and sirens activated as it slowed in the left lane to assist with a disabled vehicle on the shoulder. Authorities say that Gilbert, driving a Hyundai Sonata, failed to slow down and rear-ended the IDOT vehicle at full speed.

According to state police, the impact of the crash caused significant damage to the Hyundai and resulted in serious injuries to both Edward Gilbert and his 24-year-old female passenger, a resident of Sauk Village. Both individuals were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The IDOT worker inside the state vehicle was not injured, officials said.

Felony Charges Filed

Following the crash, law enforcement officials conducted a full investigation at the scene. During their inspection of the Hyundai, troopers discovered a loaded firearm in the vehicle. Further checks revealed that Gilbert is a convicted felon and is therefore prohibited from possessing any weapons under Illinois law.

Toxicology results have not been publicly released, but officers at the scene reported signs of impairment, and Gilbert was found to be under the influence at the time of the crash. Based on these findings, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office approved two felony charges against him:

•Felon in possession of a weapon

•Aggravated driving under the influence causing great bodily harm

Current Status

Gilbert has since been medically cleared and transferred to the custody of the Cook County Sheriff’s Department, where he remains awaiting his initial court hearing. As of Thursday morning, no additional charges have been announced, and the investigation remains active.

Officials have not released the name of the female passenger, but sources confirm she remains hospitalized with serious injuries. Her current condition has not been disclosed.

Public Safety Concerns and Legal Implications

This case highlights the ongoing risks posed by impaired and reckless driving, particularly when it affects public safety personnel. The IDOT worker involved was performing duties to aid a disabled motorist—a reminder of the vital but dangerous work carried out daily on Illinois highways.

“Drivers must understand the importance of slowing down and moving over when approaching emergency or service vehicles,” an Illinois State Police spokesperson said. “This crash could have been far worse, and we’re thankful the IDOT worker was not injured.”

Illinois law requires motorists to comply with Scott’s Law, also known as the “Move Over Law,” which mandates that drivers reduce speed and switch lanes when approaching any stopped emergency, maintenance, or construction vehicles with flashing lights.

What Comes Next

As Gilbert awaits his court date, law enforcement agencies continue to gather evidence, including dashcam footage, witness statements, and crash data. The Illinois State Police have urged anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

Meanwhile, advocates for roadside safety are renewing calls for stricter enforcement of impaired driving laws and stronger public education campaigns to reduce incidents involving emergency response vehicles.

Conclusion

The crash involving Edward V. Gilbert is a sobering example of the dangers of driving under the influence and the potential consequences of violating firearm laws. With two people seriously injured and felony charges now filed, the case will proceed to the courts where Gilbert will face the legal consequences of his actions.

As always, Gilbert is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and no further details have been released pending upcoming judicial proceedings.