Cooperation with police leads to arrest in hit-and-run that killed metro-east man, chief says

A 28-year-old Maryville man died from injuries he sustained when his motorcycle collided with a passenger vehicle Thursday.

Charles “CJ” Taylor was transported from the scene of the crash at Illinois 111 and Lakefront Drive in Wood River to a local hospital, where he died.

The driver of the other vehicle fled the scene, according to South Roxana Police, but was later arrested.

That person’s name has not been released pending criminal charges.

South Roxana Police Chief Bob Coles said the arrest was made possible with coordination of multiple agencies beginning with Wood River Police dispatcher Mindee Pence. Also involved were Edwardsville police and fire, Illinois State Police, Madison County coroner, Madison County Transit and Utilitra, an Illinois technology firm.

““I am used to law enforcement coming together during tragedies, but to reach out and obtain the support and assistance from so many non-law enforcement agencies was amazing,” Cole said in a statement. “I appreciate the help and my thoughts go out to both families involved in this tragic incident.”

A GoFundMe page was set up to help cover Taylor’s funeral expenses. By Friday afternoon, it had topped half of its $8,000 goal. Contributions can be made here. The page said he died doing what he loved, which was riding his motorcycle.

“CJ was the type of person that would come help anyone,” it said. “He wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty working helping others even on his time off of work. He was very nice and funny and made everyone feel like they have been his friend for years.

“CJ has touched and changed so many lives with out even knowing it.”

This story was originally published June 2, 2023 at 9:57 AM.