Local News
34-year-old Colleen Lischwe dead after semitruck crash pushed car off I-44 overpass
ST. LOUIS, MO – Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal crash on I-44 as Colleen Lischwe, a 34-year-old resident of St. Clair County, Illinois.
Lischwe served as the Head Coach of both the Men’s and Women’s Water Polo Teams at McKendree University, where she was admired for her dedication and leadership.
The tragic incident occurred near Vandeventer Avenue on I-44 eastbound.
According to a preliminary investigation by St. Louis City Police, Lischwe was driving her Toyota Prius eastbound on I-44 when her vehicle was struck from behind by a semi-truck.
The impact forced her car off the interstate, over a snow drift, and onto Vandeventer Avenue.
The semi-truck driver told authorities that he had momentarily looked down to grab a drink and, upon looking up, realized traffic had slowed. By then, it was too late to avoid a collision with Lischwe’s vehicle.
An eyewitness described the crash, stating, “Traffic was slowing down on I-44 near Vandeventer. The truck driver wasn’t paying attention and ended up rear-ending the Prius. It was a devastating scene.”
Emergency responders arrived on the scene and transported Lischwe to a local hospital, where she was pronounced deceased.
The St. Louis City Police Accident Reconstruction Team is leading the investigation to determine the exact sequence of events and whether charges will be filed.
Lischwe’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through her community and McKendree University, where she was a prominent figure. Known for her passion for water polo and her commitment to her athletes, she left an indelible mark on the university and the lives she touched.
“Our hearts are broken,” said a university spokesperson. “Colleen was not only a coach but a mentor and role model. She will be deeply missed.”
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the St. Louis City Police Department.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.