In the predawn hours of Wednesday, a night meant to mark the end of a workday turned into a family’s worst-case nightmare. On Interstate 57 near 120th Street in Calumet Park, Illinois, three men — Ruben F. Lujano, Martese Williams, and Daekwon Cunningham — lost their lives after a second crash struck them as they stood outside their vehicles trying to help others. Their sudden deaths stunned loved ones and left the wider community searching for answers.
Just after midnight, troopers from Illinois State Police responded to an initial three-vehicle collision in the northbound lanes of I-57, just south of 120th Street.
Shortly after that crash, as at least three people had exited their vehicles — likely to check on others or assess damage — a fourth vehicle came barreling through. That vehicle struck the three individuals standing outside their cars. The impact was fatal.
The victims were identified by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office as 50-year-old Ruben F. Lujano; 33-year-old Martese Williams; and 29-year-old Daekwon Cunningham.
At least five other people sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. All victims of the second crash were pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
Since then, families of the men have spoken out — heartbroken and demanding answers. Lujano’s relatives described him as a devoted, hard-working man with a kind heart. They said he had just finished his shift and was returning home when the first crash occurred. In their telling, he got out to check on others before tragedy struck again.
For Williams and Cunningham, their families echoed the same grief. The bond between the two men reportedly went back years — friends who were more like brothers. Their shared loss has left a deep void among loved ones and community alike.
Officially, the Illinois State Police are withholding details about potential charges, citing an ongoing investigation. Detectives say they’re reviewing witness statements, traffic evidence, and any available video footage — and are urging anyone with dash-cam recordings or relevant information to come forward.
As of now, northbound lanes of I-57, which had been shut down for hours, have reopened. But for many, that highway will never look the same. The families and wider community are holding on to hopes that full clarity — and accountability — come soon. Until then, they’re honoring the memories of Ruben Lujano, Martese Williams, and Daekwon Cunningham — three lives lost far too soon.
