A U Of I Student And Wrestler Died In An Unsolved Hit And Run Accident

A hit and run incident outside of Champaign has left a University of Illinois Student from Oak Forest dead. 

FightingIllini.com - The University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics is saddened and shocked to learn of the death of redshirt-sophomore student-athlete Francis Edelen, a member of the Illini wrestling team from Oak Forest, Illinois. Edelen was killed following a car accident in Champaign County late Wednesday evening. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.

The incident is currently under investigation. The details of it are a bit unusual. Here's an excerpt from the Illinois State Police Report:

On March 21 at 9:37 pm, Illinois State Police District 10 was notified of a two vehicle crash with injuries on I-57 southbound at milepost 253.5. Upon arrival it was determined the driver of one of the vehicles left the scene of the crash on foot, possibly attempting to flag down help or get a ride. A short distance shouth of the first crash location, the pedestrian, Francis C. Edelen, was struck and killed by an unknown vehicle in the right lane of traffic. The offending vehicle left the scene.

Illinois State Police are asking anyone with any information to contact them at 217-867-2050.

Condolences to the Edelen family and his U of I wrestling teammates. We hope you find some peace at the end of this.