CBS2 Chicago reported the tragic passing of Orland firefighter Wesley Peak in a traffic accident.
Wesley Peak, 36, was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 57 in Matteson, south suburban Chicago, on Sunday morning. According to officials, Peak was driving north on I-57 when the accident occurred. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 7:43 a.m., as confirmed by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office and Orland Fire Protection District Chief Ken Brucki. A seven-year veteran of the fire department, Peak lived in Manteno and had been a dedicated member of the community.
Brucki expressed deep sorrow over the loss, saying, “Wesley touched so many lives in a positive way; it is equally heartbreaking to the organization as it is on his family.â€
The Chicago Tribune has released details about the funeral arrangements for Peak. Visitation will take place from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday at Colonial Chapel, located at 15525 S. 73rd Ave. in Orland Park. His funeral service is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Friday at Parkview Christian Church, 11100 Orland Parkway, followed by burial at Peotone Cemetery.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash, which happened around 6:30 a.m. near the intersection of I-57 and 190th Street in Matteson. Peak was on his way to work when the accident occurred.
Peak is survived by his wife, Melissa, their son Jaxson, parents William and Linda, and three brothers. The family has requested that donations be made to the Jaxson Memorial Fund instead of flowers.
This tragedy has left the entire community in shock, with many expressing their condolences and remembering Peak for his kindness and service.