Four people 4 to 18 years old were killed Monday afternoon when a vehicle struck a school camp program in Chatham, Illinois, state police said.
Authorities have not indicated if they think the crash was intentional.
The victims included three people who were outside the building and one who was inside, Illinois State Police said in a statement.
Several others were injured, officials said, including a person who was taken to a hospital by helicopter.
A vehicle drove into the east side of a building used by the YNOT After School Camp about 3:20 p.m., state police said. It struck several people inside and exited through the building’s west wall, the agency said.
The driver was the only person in the vehicle and has been hospitalized for injuries sustained in the incident.
State police said the deadly crash was under investigation.
Chatham police called the deaths a “terrible tragedy.”
“If you believe in the power of prayer, please take a moment to pray right now for the entire Chatham community,” police said in a statement.
The village of Chatham, about 12 miles south of Springfield, has a population of more than 14,000. NBC affiliate WAND of Springfield reported that the building across from a city water tower and park is leased or owned by the camp.
A representative for the camp did not immediately respond to a request for information. It states on its website that it was launched by a Springfield couple in 2002 to help keep children active and stimulate their minds in summer.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Karen Cortes, Gemma DiCasimirro and Insiya Gandhi contributed.
