A single-vehicle accident occurred Saturday evening on the 2700 block of Highway 27 southbound lanes after debris fell from an unidentified semi-truck. The incident took place at approximately 8:19 p.m., prompting a response from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and local fire department.
According to the report filed by Deputy Jordan Maag, 25-year-old Alejandra Villarreal of Monmouth, Illinois, was driving a 2015 black Nissan Altima when a large metal piece detached from a semi-truck traveling ahead. The debris struck the front of Villarreal’s vehicle, causing significant damage to the front end and undercarriage. The semi continued without stopping and has not been identified at this time.
Villarreal and four passengers were in the vehicle. All occupants were wearing seatbelts and reported no injuries. Emergency services were initially called due to smoke coming from the vehicle, but no fire occurred. The airbags did not deploy during the incident.
The vehicle was disabled, and Villarreal arranged for a private tow, which was en route at the time deputies cleared the scene.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident. Anyone with information about the semi-truck involved is encouraged to contact authorities.