Tragic Crash at Mattoon Nursing Home Claims Life of Dorothy Saunders, Critically Injures Clara Williams
Mattoon, IL — May 2, 2025 | 4:00 PM EST
A devastating accident early Friday morning has left the Mattoon community in shock after a car collided with the north wall of the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home, a well-known nursing facility. The crash, which occurred around 11:28 AM, tragically resulted in the death of one resident and left another in critical condition. The driver of the vehicle, Curtis Meadows, 54, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated driving under the influence (DUI), according to authorities.
Crash Details and Response
Emergency responders rushed to the scene upon receiving reports of the crash, which caused significant damage to the building’s north wall. The car, a sedan, appeared to have lost control before crashing into the structure. Two residents who were closest to the impact site were immediately attended to by medical teams.
The resident who tragically lost their life, 82-year-old Dorothy Saunders, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another resident, 86-year-old Clara Williams, was critically injured and rushed to Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana for emergency care. Hospital officials have not yet provided an update on her condition.
The crash caused extensive damage to the nursing facility, forcing officials to close off part of the building for repairs. Fortunately, no other residents or staff members were injured, as most were not near the point of impact.
Investigation and Arrest
Authorities quickly arrested Curtis Meadows at the scene of the crash. Preliminary investigations indicate that Meadows was impaired at the time of the accident. He has been charged with aggravated DUI, a serious charge that could result in significant legal consequences if convicted. Officers on the scene noted that Meadows exhibited signs of alcohol intoxication after the crash.
Meadows is currently in custody at the Coles County Jail, where he awaits further charges. Investigators are working to determine the full details of the incident, including whether other factors contributed to the crash. Accident reconstruction teams have been deployed to gather evidence and review surveillance footage from the scene.
Community Reactions
The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home, which has served the Mattoon community for many years, released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life and the serious injury of a second resident. The facility assured the public that they are cooperating fully with the investigation and providing support to the affected families.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident, and our hearts go out to the families of Dorothy Saunders and Clara Williams,” the statement read. “We are doing everything we can to support the injured and their loved ones, and we will continue to work closely with authorities as the investigation unfolds.”
Local leaders, including Mayor Lisa McHugh, expressed their condolences. “This is an incredibly tragic event for our community, and our thoughts are with the families of those affected. We are grateful for the prompt response of our first responders and the ongoing efforts to understand how this happened,” Mayor McHugh said.
Support for Victims’ Families
In the wake of the crash, local residents have rallied around the victims’ families. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover funeral expenses for Dorothy Saunders and medical costs for Clara Williams. The community has also been offering support through prayer services and donation drives.
Faith-based organizations in the area have pledged to provide emotional and spiritual support to the families and staff members at the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home, who are deeply impacted by the tragedy. Counselors have been made available to staff and residents to help cope with the traumatic event.
Ongoing Investigation
The Mattoon Police Department, along with accident reconstruction teams and the Coles County State’s Attorney’s Office, are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation progresses.
At this time, Meadows remains in custody, and additional charges may be filed depending on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
Conclusion
The community of Mattoon is mourning the loss of Dorothy Saunders, a beloved resident of the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home, and holding out hope for Clara Williams’ recovery. As the investigation into the crash continues, the people of Mattoon are coming together to support the victims’ families during this incredibly difficult time.
For further updates on the investigation or to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign, please visit local news websites or the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home’s official page.