Tragedy in Coles County: Earon Criswell Dies Following Mini Bike Crash
COLES COUNTY, IL – A community is mourning the tragic loss of a local man following a serious collision that occurred late Tuesday evening, July 23, on a rural stretch of roadway in Coles County. The Coles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that 35-year-old Earon Criswell of Mattoon has died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash involving a mini bike and an SUV.
The Incident
According to authorities, at approximately 11:07 p.m. on Tuesday, sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the scene of a vehicle collision on Old State Road near County Road 400 East. When emergency responders arrived, they discovered that a 2014 Ford SUV had been traveling eastbound when it collided with a mini bike.
The mini bike was being operated by Earon Criswell, who was critically injured in the crash. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was airlifted by Air Evac Life Team to Carle Hospital in Urbana, a regional trauma center. Despite the swift response and extensive medical intervention, Criswell succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Community in Mourning
The news of Earon’s passing has sent shockwaves through the Mattoon community. Known for his down-to-earth demeanor and kind heart, Earon was a familiar face to many in the area. Friends, family, and community members have begun paying tribute to his memory through social media posts and community vigils.
“Earon had a unique spirit—he was humble, funny, and full of life,” one friend shared. “He had a way of lifting the mood wherever he went. He didn’t deserve this.”
Emergency Response and Investigation
A coordinated emergency response involved multiple agencies, highlighting the gravity of the incident. Responding agencies included:
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Coles County Sheriff’s Department
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Mattoon Police Department
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Lake Land College Police Department
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Mitchell-Jerdan EMS
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Mattoon Fire Department
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Coles-Moultrie 911
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Air Evac Life Team
Investigators are working to determine the exact circumstances leading up to the collision. The sheriff’s department has stated that the incident remains under active investigation, and no citations or charges have been issued at this time. Officials have not released information about the driver of the SUV or whether any contributing factors such as speed, lighting, or visibility played a role in the crash.
Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigation
In the days following the crash, local residents have raised questions about road safety and visibility in rural areas after dark. Old State Road, while not a major highway, sees regular local traffic and is known for its limited lighting in certain stretches. It remains unclear whether the mini bike was equipped with proper lighting or reflective materials, or whether the SUV driver had time to react.
Officials have encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. As of now, authorities have declined to provide further comment until additional investigative steps are completed, including interviews, scene analysis, and a full review of medical examiner reports.
A Life Cut Short
Earon Criswell’s sudden and tragic passing is a reminder of how quickly life can change. Those who knew him describe a man who loved being outdoors, enjoyed working on small motors and bikes, and who had a passion for his community and those around him.
He is survived by his family in Mattoon, who are now grappling with an unthinkable loss. Community members are reportedly organizing a memorial ride and gathering in his honor, with details expected to be released in the coming days.
Final Thoughts
As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers—but also comes together in grief. For now, they honor the memory of Earon Criswell, a life gone too soon, and extend their thoughts to his loved ones in this difficult time.
May he rest in peace.
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