Tuesday 9:30am: Emergency Services are asking motorists to avoid the area on I-55 near exit 126 (Lincoln Cracker Barrel).  I-55 is closed at exit 126 and traffic is being rerouted through town.

Illinois State Police have have released this information: At approximately 08:49am, a small airplane crashed on I-55 at M/P 126 in Lincoln IL. The plane became fully engulfed upon impact in the middle of the interstate. Multiple Agencies on the scene to assist. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been notified and is responding. I-55 southbound traffic was diverted at M/P 126 into Lincoln, IL by IDOT until approximately 2:30pm and has now been reopened.

An eyewitness said that the plane came in at a very sharp angle and nosedived to the ground, bursting into flames on impact.

11:15 a.m. update from ISP - Three occupants were on the plane and have been confirmed deceased by the Logan County Coroner. Identification of the deceased is pending next-of-kin notification.

No further information at this time. Information will be released as it becomes available.

picture from social media from Dara Entwistle

picture from social media
 

This past weekend offered a taste of what is to come soon, Spring. Sunday's sunny and 62 degrees brought families with strollers and babies, and balls for tossing, walkers and runners to Kickapoo Creek Park on Sunday. The winner of the most out and enjoying the fine weather were the dog walkers.

Here a young three-month-old Rottweiler and heeler mix full of energy and excitement, and all sweetness, Bruno wrapped himself in his leash sitting for a pic. Lots of other dogs and their owners enjoyed a walk also.

Photos by Jan Youngquist          (Click on image to enlarge)