A tragic accident occurred early Sunday morning on a winding road near Breese, Illinois, claiming the life of Susan Hilmes. According to authorities, Susan was driving along Rod and Gun Road when she missed a curve, causing the vehicle to veer off the road, flip upside down, and plunge into an icy pond. Her husband, Steven Hilmes, was able to break free from the sinking vehicle but was unable to rescue his wife despite diving back into the freezing water multiple times in an attempt to save her.
Shortly after the accident, a local resident placed a 911 call after Steven, drenched and in shock, walked into their home seeking help. The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office responded to the emergency, but despite rescue efforts, Susan Hilmes did not survive. Acting Chief Deputy Dennis Perez described the accident as heartbreaking and noted that the loss has deeply affected the close-knit community, where many people are connected through mutual friends or family.
The Hilmes family is devastated and has begun calling for increased safety measures along the dangerous stretch of road to prevent future tragedies. They believe that adding a barrier or guardrail could help prevent vehicles from entering the pond in similar accidents. Authorities acknowledge the concerns, with Sheriff’s Office officials agreeing that such a measure could have made a difference. Perez pointed out that while seat belts are designed for safety, they can become a challenge to unbuckle in an overturned, submerged vehicle. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures to make the road safer for drivers.
Neighbors in the area have expressed their condolences to the Hilmes family and have also urged drivers to exercise caution, particularly in hazardous conditions. Longtime residents note that the road and pond have been there for centuries and that speeding or unfamiliarity with the curve can lead to serious accidents.
As the investigation continues, the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to push for safety improvements along the roadway. The sheriff also extended his gratitude to those who attempted to rescue Susan Hilmes and acknowledged the harsh weather conditions at the time of the incident. The family, friends, and community now mourn the loss of Susan Hilmes, remembered as a devoted mother, loving wife, and passionate supporter of her family, music, and sports.
