Joshua A. Cleveland, Shirley C. Fenton Obituary, Death – Authorities are investigating a two-vehicle collision that took place early Wednesday morning near Fisher, Illinois, resulting in the loss of two lives. According to the Illinois State Police, officers were called to the scene around 6:19 a.m. after reports of a crash involving two vehicles along U.S. Route 136 at County Road 50E, near the border of Champaign and McLean counties. The roadway, which serves as a main route for local commuters, was temporarily closed to allow emergency responders to assist and conduct an on-site investigation.
The Champaign County Coroner’s Office has identified the individuals involved as 32-year-old Joshua A. Cleveland of Champaign and 67-year-old Shirley C. Fenton of Weldon, Illinois. Authorities confirmed that both drivers passed away as a result of the injuries sustained during the incident. Emergency personnel pronounced both individuals deceased at the scene shortly after their arrival.
Officials temporarily shut down a section of U.S. 136 between County Line Road/4200 East Road and County Road 100E while crews worked to clear the area and gather evidence. The closure caused some morning travel delays but the road has since been reopened to normal traffic. Law enforcement officers and crash reconstruction teams remained at the site for several hours, collecting data and documenting the scene to help determine what may have led to the collision.
The Champaign County Coroner’s Office has announced that autopsies for both Cleveland and Fenton are scheduled to take place later this week. The results will assist investigators in confirming the exact cause of death and may provide additional insights into the circumstances of the crash.
As of now, the Illinois State Police have not released details about what might have caused the two vehicles to collide head-on. Investigators are examining a range of factors, including weather and road conditions, visibility, and the possibility of mechanical issues or other contributing elements. Authorities have not yet indicated whether additional reports or witness statements have been received, but they are encouraging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
First responders from multiple local agencies, including fire and medical personnel, assisted at the scene. Their quick response ensured that the area was secured and that traffic was redirected safely while investigators conducted their work. Local officials have also expressed their condolences to the families of both drivers, recognizing the impact of the tragedy on the Champaign and Weldon communities.
Crashes of this nature are being closely reviewed by the Illinois State Police as part of ongoing efforts to improve roadway safety across the state. U.S. Route 136 has seen several accidents in recent years, prompting calls for increased awareness and potential safety improvements. Authorities continue to remind drivers to remain alert and cautious, especially during early morning hours when visibility and reaction times can be affected.
The investigation remains open as state police and the coroner’s office work together to gather all relevant facts and evidence. Updates will be shared with the public as more information becomes available.
This incident marks another reminder of how quickly accidents can occur, even on familiar roads. Community members are being urged to keep the families of both victims in their thoughts as they cope with their loss.
Both Cleveland and Fenton were described as longtime residents of their respective communities. As official reports continue to develop, the focus remains on determining the precise sequence of events that led to the collision and identifying ways to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Illinois State Police encourage anyone who may have witnessed the crash or observed activity in the area around the time it occurred to contact their regional office or submit information anonymously to assist with the ongoing investigation.
