DuPage County, IL — A tragic wrong-way crash in the early morning hours has claimed a life days after the initial collision, leaving a family grieving and authorities reiterating the dangers of impaired driving.
According to the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 5:04 a.m. on Friday, April 17, along Route 83 between Frontage Road and I-290 in an unincorporated area near Bensenville. Investigators say a northbound vehicle entered the southbound lanes, leading to a head-on collision with another car carrying two occupants.
Emergency crews arrived quickly at the scene and transported both victims from the struck vehicle to a nearby hospital for treatment. Initially, both were reported injured, but the situation took a heartbreaking turn two days later. On Sunday, April 19, one of the victims, identified as Michele Lavorata, died due to injuries sustained in the crash. The condition of the second occupant has not been publicly disclosed.
Authorities allege that the driver responsible for the wrong-way crash, identified as Turrubiates-Andrade, was operating a 2002 Buick LeSabre at the time of the incident. He was also taken to the hospital and later released into custody. Following a blood test, officials claim his blood alcohol concentration measured 0.253 — more than three times the legal limit.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin described the crash as “100% avoidable,” stressing that safer alternatives such as rideshare services are widely available. Sheriff James Mendrick echoed those concerns, stating that the county enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy when it comes to driving under the influence, given the life-altering consequences these incidents often bring.
The accused is now facing charges related to the crash and is scheduled to appear in court on May 18, 2026, before Judge Margaret O’Connell.
Authorities continue to remind the public that all charges remain allegations at this stage, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
The incident serves as another stark reminder of how a single decision behind the wheel can change lives forever.
