Crest Hill Teen Arrested After 60 mph Crash Kills Two In February

19-year old Jacoby Hamilton of Crest Hill

In the early morning hours of February 18, 2024, a fatal crash took the lives of 65-year old Walter Kretzler and 59-year old Roxane Holt, both of Joliet, near Black Road and 129th Infantry Drive.

Following an extensive investigation, the Joliet Police Department Traffic Unit and Investigations Division determined 19-year old Jacoby Hamilton had caused the crash. Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans spoke to Scott Slocum this morning. Chief Evans said Hamilton was traveling at 60 miles per hour, blew through a stoplight, and caused the wreck.

Chief Evans said police were “very familiar” with Hamilton, and that Hamilton had missed several court dates related to weapons violations.

Police secured an arrest warrant for Hamilton for four counts of Reckless Homicide, and Hamilton was taken into custody on Friday.

“My thoughts are first and foremost with those who have lost loved ones in this devastating and senseless crash,” said Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans. “I commend the diligent work of our officers and detectives who responded to the scene and conducted the follow-up investigation leading to this arrest. A tragedy such as this only reaffirms our commitment to roadway safety, which will always remain a priority for the Joliet Police Department.”