A tragic incident in Milan, Illinois, has brought the dangers of hit-and-run accidents into sharp focus. On May 10, 2025, an 80-year-old man, Tony Freeman, was fatally injured after being struck by a vehicle. The Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident, which occurred in the 5100 block of Airport Road.
Details of the Incident
According to a media release from the Sheriff’s Office, Mr. Freeman was discovered lying in the roadway with significant injuries. He was immediately transported to UnityPoint Health and subsequently transferred to the University of Iowa Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Law enforcement officials discovered vehicle debris at the scene, indicating that a vehicle had struck the pedestrian. Initially, the vehicle involved was not present at the scene. However, the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office has since located both the driver and the vehicle. The driver is reportedly cooperating with the ongoing investigation, though their identity is being withheld at this time as the investigation continues.
Legal Implications of Hit-and-Run Accidents
In Illinois, as in many states, drivers have a legal duty to stop and render aid if they are involved in an accident resulting in injury or death. Failing to do so can lead to serious criminal charges, as well as significant civil liability.
From a personal injury perspective, hit-and-run accidents can leave victims and their families facing substantial financial burdens. Medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and pain and suffering can all contribute to a significant financial strain. In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, victims may face additional difficulties in recovering compensation for their losses.
In Illinois, injured parties may have several avenues for pursuing compensation after a hit-and-run accident. These may include:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Most auto insurance policies in Illinois include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which provides compensation to policyholders who are injured by an uninsured driver. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Med-Pay Coverage: Some auto insurance policies also include medical payments (Med-Pay) coverage, which can help pay for medical expenses regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
- Personal Injury Lawsuit: If the at-fault driver is eventually identified and has insurance, the victim can file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.
- Victim Compensation Funds: States often have victim compensation funds that can assist with financial losses resulting from violent crimes, including hit-and-run accidents.
Importance of Thorough Investigation
The ongoing investigation by the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office is crucial for determining the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and ensuring that justice is served. Law enforcement officials will likely be examining factors such as:
- The Driver’s Actions: Whether the driver was speeding, distracted, or impaired at the time of the accident.
- Road Conditions: Whether any road conditions, such as poor lighting or visibility, contributed to the accident.
- Witness Testimony: Any statements from witnesses who may have seen the accident or the events leading up to it.
- Vehicle Inspection: A thorough inspection of the vehicle involved to determine if there were any mechanical issues that may have contributed to the crash.
Commentary from Gosuits Rock Island County, Illinois Personal Injury Attorney
The fatal hit-and-run in Milan is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life is—and how devastating the consequences of a single moment of negligence can be. As the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation, there are still many unanswered questions, and the emotional toll on the victim’s family is immeasurable.
In hit-and-run cases, the legal landscape is often more complex than it appears. Even when a driver is located, as in this case, there are significant hurdles when it comes to recovering compensation, particularly if the driver is uninsured, underinsured, or lacks sufficient assets. For families already grappling with grief, navigating these legal challenges can feel overwhelming. Insurance options such as uninsured motorist coverage or state victim compensation funds may provide some relief, but accessing those benefits often requires quality legal guidance and timely action.
These cases also raise broader issues about road safety and accountability. When a driver leaves the scene of a crash—whether out of fear, confusion, or deliberate evasion—it adds another layer of harm to an already tragic situation. It delays medical assistance, complicates investigations, and robs families of the transparency and closure they deserve. Civil claims not only provide financial relief but also offer a means of holding negligent parties responsible in ways that the criminal system alone may not fully address.
In the aftermath of a tragedy like this, speaking with a personal injury attorney can be an important step. A consultation can help families understand their rights, explore all available sources of compensation, and begin to rebuild after an unimaginable loss.
