Illinois Girls Killed in Jet Ski Crash Identified

Two Illinois girls tragically lost their lives in a devastating collision between a WaveRunner and a boat on Lake Marie, part of the Chain O'Lakes.

Identified as Elle Kim, 13, from Long Grove, Illinois, and Sarina Vootkur, 16, from Lake Forest, California, the incident occurred Tuesday evening, according to the Lake County Sheriff's Office, according to ABC 7.

Details of the Incident

The crash occurred around 5:15 PM when a Yamaha WaveRunner, operated by one of Illinois girls, Sarina Vootkur, was traveling near the channel to Grass Lake.

At the same time, a Sea Ray Cabin Cruiser, piloted by a 55-year-old Antioch man, approached the area, Lake and McHenry County Scanner reports.

Witnesses reported that the WaveRunner, traveling at high speed, collided with the boat despite efforts to avoid it.

Both girls on the WaveRunner, wearing life vests, were thrown into the water upon impact.

The boat's occupants swiftly rescued the girls, administered aid, and called emergency services.

Despite these efforts, both victims succumbed to blunt force injuries at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office, alongside the Illinois Conservation Police, continues to investigate the incident.

Preliminary findings indicate that the collision was a tragic accident.

The community and emergency responders expressed condolences to the families affected.

Fire departments from Fox Lake, Lake Villa, Round Lake, Spring Grove, and Grayslake assisted at the scene, highlighting the collaborative effort in responding to the tragedy.

Eyewitness Accounts and Safety Concerns

Eyewitnesses recounted seeing the WaveRunner and the Sea Ray approaching each other at high speeds near the Grass Lake Channel.

Despite efforts to maneuver, the collision was unavoidable.

Deputy Chief Chris Covelli described it as a heartbreaking Illinois jet ski crash, emphasizing either vessel's lack of evasive action.

Randy Chmiola, a frequent boater in the area, expressed deep concern over the incident, CBS News noted.

He noted the challenges of controlling watercraft and the inability to brake on roads.

Illinois jet ski crash, he stressed, underscores the risks, especially for young and inexperienced operators.

As investigations continue, authorities are focused on understanding the sequence of events leading to the collision and ensuring safety measures on the waterways.

The incident has prompted discussions among local boating communities about safety protocols and the importance of vigilance while navigating the Chain O'Lakes.

The tragic loss of Illinois girls has deeply impacted the local community, with condolences pouring in for their families and friends.

Many have shared memories of the girls and expressed shock over the suddenness of the accident.

In response to the incident, authorities and boating enthusiasts advocate for enhanced safety awareness on Lake Marie and other interconnected lakes.

This includes education on boating regulations, speed limits, and life-saving equipment such as life vests.

Local officials, including Chief Jon Cokefair of the Antioch Fire Department, highlighted the swift response of emergency services and emphasized the importance of preparedness in such emergencies.

Efforts are underway to review existing safety protocols and consider additional measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The Lake County Coroner's Office conducted autopsies on both victims, confirming the cause of death as blunt force injuries sustained during the collision.

This grim detail has underscored the need for continued vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines on the waterways.

As the investigation progresses, the Lake County Sheriff's Office remains committed to providing updates and supporting the affected families through this difficult time.

The community, united in grief, is rallying around the families of Illinois girls, offering support and solidarity in their mourning.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Girls, 16 and 13, killed in WaveRunner crash on Lake Marie in Antioch identified by medical examiner - From ABC 7 Chicago