Henderson County, Ill.- Officials have announced a Gladstone, Illinois woman has been charged in the deaths of two construction workers following a fatal accident on the Great River Bridge in October 2022. On October 18th, 2022, the Illinois State Police responded to a fatal traffic crash on US 34 on the Great River Bridge. A vehicle, driven by 22-year-old Emily R. Johnson was traveling on US 34 in the right driving lane. Johnson failed to reduce speed or yield to a temporary maintenance zone. 20-year-old Pearson J. Franklin of New London and 35-year-old Andrew S. Whitcomb of Burnside Illinois were struck by Johnson's vehicle and died from injuries sustained in the accident. Johnson has been charged with two counts of Reckless Homicide, and two counts of Aggravated Unlawful Use of an Electronic Communication Device. Johnson's next court appearance is scheduled for May 3rd.
Burlington, IA- A fundraiser has been organized in memory of one of the victims killed in an accident on the Great River Bridge. The Burlington Beacon reports that the Mount Pleasant High School class of 2020 has started a GoFundMe campaign in memory of 20-year-old Pearson Franklin of New London. Franklin and his co-worker, 35-year-old Andrew Whitcomb of Burnside Illinois were setting out construction barrels when they were struck by a vehicle. Both men were severely injured and died as a result. The GoFundMe was organized by Kenna Smith of Mount Pleasant with the goal of raising $2,000 for Franklin's family. The fundraiser, as of Thursday morning has raised over $8,500.