The Buffalo Grove community is mourning the loss of Jeremi Klodzinski, an 18-year-old from Wheeling, who died Friday evening following a collision between his motorcycle and a pickup truck.

The crash occurred at approximately 5:40 p.m. in the northbound lanes of Buffalo Grove Road at University Drive. According to Buffalo Grove police, multiple units were dispatched to the scene immediately after reports of the collision were received. When officers arrived, they discovered Klodzinski critically injured.

First responders administered lifesaving aid at the scene, working urgently to stabilize the young motorcyclist before he was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite their best efforts, Klodzinski was later pronounced dead.

The driver of the pickup truck involved in the collision was not injured. Police noted that the driver remained at the scene, cooperated fully with authorities, and has not been cited or charged as of this time.

“The cause of the crash has yet to be determined and the investigation remains ongoing, with no citations or charges issued at this time,” Buffalo Grove officials said in a written statement.

In the aftermath of the collision, police closed Buffalo Grove Road between Dundee Road and East Darryl Drive to allow for a full investigation. The closure lasted nearly four hours, with the roadway reopening at 10:25 p.m.

The Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team (MCAT) has been called in to assist Buffalo Grove investigators in reconstructing the accident and determining the factors that led to the deadly crash.

Authorities have not released details on the exact sequence of events, such as which vehicle had the right of way or the speed at which the motorcycle and truck were traveling.

Investigators will be reviewing physical evidence, witness statements, and any available surveillance or traffic camera footage to establish a clear understanding of what happened.

The news of Klodzinski’s death has sent shockwaves through both Wheeling and Buffalo Grove, where friends, family, and neighbors are grappling with the sudden loss of a young man whose life had just begun.

At only 18 years old, Jeremi is remembered by those who knew him as a bright, kind, and passionate individual. His passing is being felt deeply across the community, with many taking to social media to share condolences and prayers for his grieving family.

Crashes involving motorcycles often highlight the vulnerability of riders on the road. While investigators continue their work, Buffalo Grove police are reminding all drivers—whether in cars, trucks, or on motorcycles—to remain vigilant, share the road responsibly, and take extra care at intersections where many serious collisions occur.

As the investigation moves forward, officials have pledged to keep the public informed of any developments. Meanwhile, the community is left mourning the devastating loss of Jeremi Klodzinski, a young man taken far too soon.