IL Tollway Worker Killed While Repairing Potholes Identified

DES PLAINES, IL — A tollway maintenance worker who was struck and killed by a vehicle while repairing potholes on Interstate 294 early Saturday has been identified.

Calvin Holley, 52, of Chicago, died after he was struck on I-294 near milepost 41.5 in Des Plaines early Saturday, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office. Two other Illinois Tollway workers were also injured in the crash.

Holley and the injured workers were taken to a suburban hospital, where Holley was later pronounced dead, authorities said.

• Tollway Worker Killed, 2 Injured In I-294 Crash: Police

In a statement Saturday, Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse called Holley's death a tragedy and extended condolences to his family and loved ones.

“The Illinois Tollway Board and all Tollway staff are devastated by the loss of one of our Illinois Tollway roadway maintenance workers,” Rouse said.

The equipment operator/laborer had worked for the Tollway for the past two years and was a respected and valued member of the agency, Rouse said.

“Our equipment operator/laborers work on the front line of our 294-mile roadway system, maintaining safe roadway conditions and assisting stranded motorists,” she said. “He was carrying out these duties when he tragically lost his life on the Tri-State Tollway (I-294).”

Rouse also urged drivers to follow Illinois' Move Over Law.

“Roadway workers, police officers and everyday motorists are too often hurt, injured or worse because drivers are not following the Move Over Law,” she said. “The Tollway reminds everyone to slow down and change lanes safely when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights on the road.”

“We offer our deepest condolences and our full support to family, loved ones and friends for this heartbreaking loss,” Rouse added.