CAHOKIA HEIGHTS — A van carrying Belleville West students crashed near Pocket Road and Illinois Route 15 around 8 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026, killing a 17-year-old student and sending multiple students to area hospitals.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

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The van apparently struck a light pole in the accident and also caught fire. First responders arrived quickly after being dispatched and transported some students to hospitals.

A 17-year-old student was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the St. Clair County Coroner’s Office.

The Cahokia Heights Police Department is leading the investigation, with Illinois State Police reconstruction team also participating.

The exact number of students and adults in the van is not yet known.

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