The Evanston community is mourning the loss of 17-year-old Charles Halliday, a senior at Evanston Township High School (ETHS), who died following an early Monday morning collision involving an Audi SUV and a Chicago Tribune delivery truck in Deerfield, Illinois.
The crash occurred shortly after 12:15 a.m. on Waukegan Road. According to police and fire officials, Halliday was traveling in the Audi SUV when it collided with the delivery truck. Both vehicles sustained extensive damage, and despite the emergency response, Halliday was pronounced dead at the scene.
Halliday was a member of the ETHS Class of 2027. News of his death has brought sadness to classmates, teachers, school administrators and members of the wider Evanston community.
Evanston Township High School Remembers Charles Halliday
In a statement shared with the school community Tuesday morning, Evanston Township High School administrators expressed profound sadness over Halliday’s passing and remembered him as a beloved student and exceptionally talented member of the school’s theatre community.
The statement read:
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our students, Charles Halliday, a beloved member of the Class of 2027.
Charles was an exceptionally talented member of the ETHS Theatre community. The time, talent, and care he gave to this community were meaningful to so many, and his presence made a difference in ways that will always be remembered.
His loss will be deeply felt by the many students, staff members, and others whose lives he touched.”
The school emphasized the meaningful contributions Halliday made through his involvement in theatre and the lasting impression he left on students and staff.
For those who shared that space with him, his death represents the loss of a valued member of their creative community and a young person whose presence will be missed.
School Offers Support to Students and Staff
The sudden loss has left members of the ETHS community facing grief and difficult emotions. School administrators acknowledged the impact of the tragedy and encouraged students experiencing sadness, confusion or distress to seek support.
Counselors and other student support professionals are available to provide assistance to those who need someone to talk to or companionship as they navigate the days ahead.
Families were also encouraged to check in with their children, make room for open conversations and offer reassurance as students process the news.
Condolences to the Halliday Family
Charles Halliday was 17, with many opportunities and experiences still ahead of him. His death has left his family, friends, classmates and teachers grieving a life lost far too soon.
Heartfelt condolences go to his loved ones and everyone at Evanston Township High School whose lives he touched. May they find strength and comfort in the memories they shared with Charles.
May he rest in peace.
