Donations will provide immediate and long-term assistance to the families affected by the April 28, 2025, crash at the YNOT After School Camp in Chatham, Illinois. Funds will cover funeral expenses, medical bills for injured children, trauma counseling, and community healing initiatives. Contributions may be directed to local nonprofits, mental health services, and organizations supporting youth programs in the Chatham area.
On April 28, 2025, a devastating incident occurred at the YNOT After School Camp in Chatham, Illinois. A vehicle driven by 44-year-old Marianne Akers veered off the road and crashed through the camp building, resulting in the deaths of four young individuals: Rylee Britton, 18; Ainsley Johnson, 8; Alma Buhnerkempe, 7; and Kathryn Corley, 7. Six other children sustained injuries, with one in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, and toxicology results are pending. The community has come together in mourning, holding vigils and raising funds to support the victims’ families.
On the afternoon of April 28, 2025, tragedy struck the YNOT After School Camp in Chatham, Illinois, when a vehicle driven by 44-year-old Marianne Akers left the roadway, crossed a field, and crashed through the camp building. The incident occurred around 3:20 p.m., during a time when children were engaged in after-school activities.
The crash resulted in the deaths of four young individuals: Rylee Britton, 18, of Springfield; and Ainsley Johnson, 8; Alma Buhnerkempe, 7; and Kathryn Corley, 7, all from Chatham. Six other children were injured, with one reported in critical condition. The driver, Akers, was uninjured and taken to a local hospital for evaluation. Authorities have stated that there is no indication the crash was intentional, but the investigation is ongoing, with toxicology reports pending.
The community has responded with an outpouring of support, organizing vigils and fundraisers to assist the affected families. Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed his condolences, calling the incident “horrifying,” and emphasized the need for community unity during this difficult time. The YNOT organization, founded in 2002, has been a cornerstone for youth programs in the area, making this tragedy deeply felt throughout Chatham and beyond.
