Family Of Mother Of 5 Killed In I-57 Hit-and-Run Launches GoFundMe

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS — The family of a woman killed in a fatal hit-and-run on I-57 has launched a GoFundMe page to support her five children. 

The woman, identified by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office as Candace Collins of East Garfield Park, died Sunday after she was struck by a car on northbound I-57 in Washington Heights around 8:51 p.m, according to Illinois State Police. 

Police said she had gotten out of an SUV on the shoulder before the accident. A man exited the SUV to assist Collins but was hit by a different car; he was taken to an area hospital with injuries. No description of either car was released by State Police.

Cameisha Jackson, a cousin of Collins, said she grew up with the late mother of five.

“She was a bubbly person, always bringing good energy, always smiling and always ready to have fun and enjoy the vibes with her family,” Jackson said. 

Jackson said Collins lived in Englewood and was a great mother to her children, ranging from 6 years old to 19. She organized a GoFundMe to support funeral expenses and Collins’ children. 

“We are asking for help — not only to lay Candace to rest with dignity, but to help protect and support the five children she leaves behind,” Jackson wrote on the GoFundMe page. 

Jackson said Collins’ 7-year-old son has autism and requires additional care. 

“Just trying to get him the care that he needs as well as providing for the children and the necessities they need. School is starting back; they need clothes, shoes, things like that,” Jackson said. 

Family and friends held a balloon release Thursday to honor Collins, Jackson said. Over the past week, she has heard from many people her cousin made an impact on.

“People we had hung out with years ago in our past, like in our 20s, were saying how she still was in touch with them and how she would still reach out and come out to things … She was still bringing her good energy and joy to everyone,” she said. 

An Illinois State Police spokesperson said the investigation into the accident is ongoing and no arrests have been made. Collins’ family said they are still waiting for answers.

“We don’t have a definite story of what actually happened,” Jackson said.