On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at 9:08 p.m., St. Charles Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to the 1300 block of W. Main Street (Illinois Route 64) for the report of an accident with injuries. Upon arrival officers learned that the accident involved a motor vehicle and a bicyclist. Initial investigation showed that a 2021 Jeep Wrangler was traveling east in the left eastbound lane of W. Main Street. A bicyclist was traveling west in the center dual turn lane. The bicyclist then turned left directly in to the path of the Jeep Wrangler. It was determined that the bicycle had no lights or lamps illuminated and the cyclist was wearing dark clothing and was not wearing a helmet.
The cyclist was transported to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The driver and sole occupant of the Jeep Wrangler was not injured. No citations have been issued in this investigation. The deceased has been identified as: Rafael Hernandez-Villa, 61 years-of age, from St. Charles.
The St. Charles Police Department is encouraging anyone who might have witnessed the accident to contact the St. Charles Police Department Investigations Section at (630) 377-4435. Motorists are reminded that in the fall and winter with dusk being earlier in the evening, to be cautious and aware of bicycles on the roadway. Bicyclists traveling after dark must have a headlight and either a tail lamp or rear reflector. Reflective clothing can also be very effective. Bicyclists should signal their intentions and try to be visible and predictable.
