On September 21, 2024, a tragic event occurred in the small and close-knit community of Milford, Illinois, when Colson Carley, a senior at Cissna Park Senior High School and a resident of Milford, aged 17, died in a horrific motorbike accident. The tragic collision happened on Illinois Route 1, slightly south of Iroquois County Road 1330 North, and it devastated his friends, family, school, and the entire community. Colson was a rising star on the basketball team at Cissna Park High School. He was adored for his devotion to the game and his upbeat, positive demeanor. His unexpected passing has left a pall over the community and sparked an outpouring of condolences, support, and memories for a young life taken far too soon.
The Illinois State Police report that the accident occurred on a clear Saturday afternoon at approximately 4:39 p.m. Colson’s Yamaha motorcycle drifted into the east ditch when he was traveling north on Illinois Route 1 for unidentified reasons. Colson was thrown from the motorcycle when it crashed into a culvert after going into the ditch. After quick arrival of first responders, Colson was taken to a nearby hospital. Shortly after reaching Iroquois Memorial Hospital, he was declared deceased despite the medical staff’s best attempts. According to the Illinois State Police investigation, the scene was cleared by roughly 6:28 p.m., but the terrible loss had already happened at that point.
Colson’s death has had a profound impact on Cissna Park Senior High School as well as the broader Milford neighborhood. As word of the tragedy circulated, it became evident how important Colson was to the school and the community as well as to his basketball team. Colson was a model student-athlete who was well-known for his kind nature, strong work ethic, and passion for the game of basketball. On and off the court, his commitment to his team and his education was clear, and teammates, coaches, classmates, and professors all looked up to him.
Following this tragedy, the high school did not spare any time in arranging for staff and pupils to receive support. The crisis team at Cissna Park Senior High School, which is made up of pastors, social workers, counselors, and other support personnel, made an announcement that anyone in need of talking about the emotional toll that Colson’s death had taken might reach them. Knowing that the loss of such a revered character would affect the entire school, staff, parents, and students were all urged to reach out and seek help. The community has come together through this shared sadness as they all attempt to understand and deal with the loss of someone who was so important to their lives.
