Trucker was on his phone when he killed man changing tire on I-80, prosecutors say
Tractor-Trailer Driver Charged in Fatal Accident on Suburban Expressway
A tragic incident unfolded on June 24 when Sebastian Stone, 23, lost his life after being struck by a passing vehicle while changing a flat tire on the right shoulder of I-80 near Torrence Avenue. Prosecutors revealed that the driver of the tractor-trailer involved in the accident was using his phone at the time of the collision.
Following the fatal crash, Illinois State Police launched an investigation and were able to track down the trucking company and driver responsible for the incident. Kulgeet Kang, 34, was identified as the driver of the tractor-trailer and was found to have been using his phone when he hit Stone on the expressway.
Despite the severity of the situation, Kang did not stop to render aid or report the crash. Police were able to locate Kang with the help of witness statements and technology, leading to his arrest on charges of reckless homicide and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
During a court hearing, Judge Rivanda Doss Beal granted the state’s detention request for Kang, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving, especially for someone like Kang who drives for a living. With the inability to effectively monitor his use of electronic devices while on the road, Kang was deemed a risk to public safety.
The tragic loss of Sebastian Stone serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of distracted driving and the importance of following road safety protocols at all times. The legal proceedings against Kuljeet Kang will continue as the community mourns the untimely loss of a young life.
