Mendota High School Student Killed in Route 251 Crash

MENDOTA — A Mendota High School sophomore was killed in a single vehicle crash Friday afternoon on Illinois Route 251 in LaSalle County. Mendota Superintendent Denise Aughenbaugh identified the victim as Jeniah Francis in a letter released by the district. Peru Police said the crash happened around 2:30 p.m. north of North 35th Road. Police said all five occupants of the vehicle were believed to be minors. The La Salle County Coroner’s Office confirmed one fatality, and two occupants were flown to a Peoria hospital with injuries. Illinois State Police continue to investigate the crash. Mendota High School is offering grief counseling for students and staff.