Trevor Waddell Obituary, Death – Authorities in Kankakee County have released the identity of the person who tragically lost his life in a weekend traffic accident involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle. According to Kankakee County Coroner Bob Gessner, the victim has been identified as 31-year-old Trevor Waddell, a resident of Braidwood.
Officials say that Waddell was operating the motorcycle involved in the crash, which occurred Sunday morning on Illinois Route 17 near South 3120W Road, located west of Kankakee. Emergency responders, including the Illinois State Police and local paramedics, were dispatched to the scene at approximately 9:49 a.m. Despite immediate medical attention, Waddell was pronounced deceased at 10:18 a.m., according to the coroner’s report. His family has been notified of the incident.
Following the collision, authorities closed a section of Illinois Route 17 to allow for a full investigation. The roadway remained closed until about 2 p.m., as state police reconstructed the scene, collected evidence, and ensured the area was safe for traffic to resume. The Illinois State Police Troop 5 team managed the investigation with assistance from local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
Investigators have not yet shared additional details about how the crash occurred or what might have contributed to it. However, officials confirmed that the accident involved a motorcycle and a passenger car and that both vehicles sustained significant damage. As of now, police have not indicated whether weather conditions, speed, or other factors may have played a role. The investigation remains ongoing.
Motorcycle-related incidents often require detailed examination because of the limited protection riders have compared to those in enclosed vehicles. Investigators typically assess vehicle positions, skid marks, debris patterns, and eyewitness statements to determine what happened in the moments leading up to impact. The Illinois State Police stated that more information would be released once their investigation is complete and all reports are finalized.
News of the accident has affected the local community, especially those in and around Braidwood who knew Waddell. Friends and acquaintances have expressed sadness at the loss of a young man described as kind, energetic, and devoted to his loved ones. Although the police did not release any personal information beyond his identity and hometown, tributes are already appearing online, with residents offering condolences and prayers for his family.
The section of Illinois Route 17 where the accident occurred is a busy two-lane roadway that connects several rural areas with the larger Kankakee region. Drivers familiar with the route say it can be challenging at times due to curves, varying speed limits, and occasional traffic congestion. Authorities regularly remind motorists to remain alert, especially when motorcycles are present on the road, emphasizing that riders are less visible and more vulnerable in traffic.
The Kankakee County Coroner’s Office and the Illinois State Police have assured the public that a complete review of the circumstances will be conducted to ensure transparency and safety. Depending on their findings, officials may issue recommendations or updates related to road safety or driver awareness in the area.
In the meantime, family and friends of Trevor Waddell are left grieving an unexpected and heartbreaking loss. Many have described him as someone who enjoyed riding motorcycles and appreciated the freedom of the open road. His passing serves as a somber reminder of the importance of caution and attentiveness for all who share public highways, whether behind the wheel of a car or riding on two wheels.
The investigation by the Illinois State Police continues, and officials have asked anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward. Further updates are expected once the inquiry concludes.
