CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Authorities have confirmed the identity of the man killed in a July collision between a car and an Amtrak train in rural Champaign County.
Kyle Clevenger, 33, of Rantoul, died from injuries sustained in the crash, according to Champaign County Coroner Laurie Brauer. The fatal incident occurred on July 27 along Leverette Road, near an active railroad crossing.
An autopsy was conducted at the Sangamon County Regional Autopsy Facility, and the investigation remains ongoing by both the Champaign County Coroner’s Office and the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office.
Preliminary findings from the sheriff’s office suggest that Clevenger’s vehicle was traveling eastbound when it reportedly drove around lowered crossing gates and was struck by a northbound Amtrak train. The collision caused the vehicle to ignite. No injuries were reported among the train’s passengers or crew.
In the days following the tragedy, family and friends gathered at Douglass Park on July 29 to remember Clevenger. More than 300 orange and black balloons were released in his honor — a tribute to the Urbana High School alumnus.
