Felony Charges For Driver Accused Of Hitting DGN Student With Car

DOWNERS GROVE, IL -- A man accused of striking a Downers Grove North student with his car as she crossed the street outside the school is in custody. Police have charged Joseph Kucharski, 51, formerly of Naperville with felony aggravated DUI and felony reckless driving in connection with the crash, which left Beth Dunlap, 16, fighting for her life Tuesday.

Police say a preliminary investigation indicates that Dunlap was in the Main Street pedestrian crosswalk just before 11 a.m. and had a "walk" signal when she was hit by Kucharski as he headed southbound. According to police, Kucharski crossed into the oncoming traffic lanes and entered the Grant Street intersection when the traffic light was still red.

Downers Grove North Principal Janice Schwarze shared an update from Dunlap's parents Friday that said her injuries were "unrecoverable" and that they were making "final arrangements." Students, staff, and community members responded with an outpouring of love and support for the Dunlap family.

Mark Wasik, who coached Dunlap in varsity volleyball at Downers Grove North told Patch that the incident was "tragic and unbelievable." He said that Beth "had an entire life ahead of her and it was taken by a senseless accident that was no fault of her own."

On Friday students and staff at Downers Grove North observed 18 seconds of silence to honor Dunlap.

Kucharski is set to appear in court for a bond hearing on Feb. 25.

Anyone who has additional information about the crash is urged to contact Downers Grove Police at 630-434-5600.