Richard Krzysztofiak Obituary, Death – Authorities in Lake County are investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred Tuesday afternoon in the northwest suburbs, resulting in the death of a 95-year-old man.
According to police reports, the incident took place around 3:15 p.m. near the intersection of Lake Cook Road and Quentin Road in Deer Park. Officers were initially alerted to a serious crash in the area, but dispatchers noted that another call had come in moments earlier reporting a disabled vehicle in the same vicinity.
When first responders arrived, they discovered two heavily damaged vehicles and the victim lying in the roadway. The man was later identified as Richard Krzysztofiak, a 95-year-old resident of Palatine. Emergency personnel pronounced him dead at the scene. The Lake County Coroner’s Office reported that an autopsy determined Krzysztofiak died from blunt force injuries sustained in the crash.
Preliminary information from the investigation indicates that Krzysztofiak’s vehicle had broken down in the center lane of Lake Cook Road. He reportedly exited the vehicle to tend to it when another car struck his stationary vehicle from behind, leading to the fatal collision. Authorities did not immediately provide details regarding the condition of the other driver involved.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has assigned its Technical Crash Investigations Team to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Investigators are reviewing the scene, vehicle positions, roadway conditions, and any other evidence that could help determine what happened. This team typically conducts detailed reconstructions of serious crashes to provide an accurate account of events.
Officials stressed that investigations of this type take time to ensure all relevant factors, such as vehicle mechanical conditions and driver actions, are thoroughly evaluated. Police have asked anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information that could assist investigators to come forward.
Residents in the Deer Park area expressed shock and sadness over the fatal crash, noting that disabled vehicles in busy lanes can pose serious risks. Community members emphasized the importance of caution when approaching or stopping near broken-down cars on main roads, as even routine situations can quickly become dangerous.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is expected to release additional information as the investigation continues. Authorities reminded drivers to remain vigilant on the road, especially in areas with frequent traffic or during situations involving disabled vehicles.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by sudden roadway hazards and the importance of following safety protocols when vehicles experience mechanical issues. Law enforcement agencies also reiterated their commitment to conducting a thorough review to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Meanwhile, neighbors and friends of Richard Krzysztofiak are mourning his loss and offering support to his family during this difficult time. Officials have extended condolences to his loved ones while emphasizing that the focus remains on understanding the circumstances that led to this tragic event.
