Chicago driver was speeding, using phone in fatal 2024 crash: police
WHEELING, Ill. - A Chicago man was arrested and charged with reckless homicide after a crash last November that killed a 49-year-old driver.
Leads to Arrest
What we know:
Julian Ramirez, 30, was arrested in connection with a fatal crash that occurred Nov. 6, 2024, on Lake Cook Road, west of Milwaukee Avenue.
On the day of the crash, Michael Szpisjak, 49, of Northbrook, was the sole occupant of a disabled vehicle that was stopped in the middle lane of Lake Cook Road when he was hit by a 2022 Audi Q5, driven by Ramirez, Wheeling police said.
After the crash, Szpisjak was transported to Advocate Condell Hospital in Libertyville, where he died from his injuries.
An investigation revealed Ramirez was traveling 59 mph in a 45 mph zone when he rear-ended Szpisjak's vehicle, police said.
Ramirez was also reportedly using his phone when the crash occurred.
Authorities said there were no signs of braking or speed reduction before the collision.
What's next:
Ramirez appeared in court for a detention hearing on Jan. 15 in Rolling Meadows on one count of reckless homicide and one count of aggravated use of electronic communication.
He was also placed on home confinement with special conditions.