Illinois Democratic Leader Jackie Traynere Involved in Hit-and-Run Incident with Child Cyclist; No Charges Filed Yet
A Will County Board member and prominent local Democrat, Jackie Traynere, struck a child riding a bicycle in a Bolingbrook crosswalk and left the scene, according to police reports. Despite clear evidence of vehicle damage and increasing public outrage, no arrest has been made.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred at approximately 7:50 a.m. on March 11, 2025, at the intersection of Route 53 and Rockhurst Drive in Bolingbrook, Illinois. Traynere, who also serves as DuPage Township Administrator, claimed she was stopped at a red light and proceeded when her left-turn arrow turned green. She stated she saw the child “fall off” his bike but was uncertain whether she struck him directly.
Traynere reportedly stopped briefly, checked on the child’s condition, then left the scene without immediately reporting the collision. Later that morning, she reported the incident at the Bolingbrook police station.
Visible Damage and Legal Questions
Bolingbrook police confirmed in their crash report visible damage to Traynere’s vehicle—a significant dent and scratches on the hood—though Traynere provided no explanation for this damage. Under Illinois law, drivers involved in accidents causing injury or damage are required to remain at the scene and report promptly, typically within 30 minutes. Failure to comply could result in criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to felony offenses, depending on the severity of injuries.
Police have neither disclosed the child’s identity nor confirmed if injuries were sustained, only labeling the event a “vehicle vs. pedestrian” incident. Without a verified injury, leaving the scene is considered a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail.
Public Outcry and Political Fallout
The story gained significant attention after Illinois Review and Edgar County Watchdogs published their initial reports, criticizing the police’s decision not to file charges immediately. Both outlets accused local authorities of protecting Traynere due to her political stature in Will County—a region where Democrats dominate local politics.
Jackie Traynere has served on the Will County Board since 2004 and as Township Administrator since 2019, earning a $92,000 annual salary. Neither Traynere nor local Democratic officials have publicly commented on the incident.
Online responses from the community have intensified, with many citizens alleging political favoritism and demanding accountability. Witnesses reportedly saw paramedics treating the child at the scene, according to footage released by Next News Network, though official police confirmation of injuries remains unavailable.
Calls for Accountability and Transparency
Critics argue that any delay or perceived cover-up could severely undermine public trust in local government. Edgar County Watchdogs have called for Traynere’s immediate resignation, characterizing her behavior as reckless and emblematic of broader corruption concerns.
Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow, responsible for potential charges, has not commented publicly, and as of March 25, 2025, no charges or court actions appear on public record.
The Bolingbrook Police Department has not confirmed if its investigation remains active or closed. Meanwhile, community outrage continues, demanding justice and transparency in a case that has quickly become politically charged.
