Distracted Driving A Factor In Fatal Crash: Police

GURNEE, IL — Distracted driving was a factor in a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 33-year-old woman last spring in Gurnee, police said last week.

Javier Contreras-Bulnes, 27, of Gurnee, has been charged with aggravated use of an electronic communication device causing death and two counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving death in connection with the April 2025 collision.

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The charges filed come after a months-long probe by the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team and included examination of digital evidence. The investigation determined "distracted driving played a significant role in the crash," according to a news release from the Gurnee Police Department.

Contreras-Bulnes was driving a Ford E450 in the area of Delany Road and Sunset Avenue in Gurnee at about 8 p.m. on April 2, 2025, when his truck hit a pedestrian, who was later identified as Amber Knowles, 33, of Mundelein, according to authorities.

Knowles was pronounced dead at the scene.

"This incident serves as a difficult reminder of how dangerous distracted driving can be. A brief glance at a phone can change lives forever. We continue to urge drivers to put their phones down and give their full attention to the road," Gurnee Police Chief Jeremy Gaughan said.

Authorities are urging drivers to be wary of the dangers of distracted driving.

"Using a cellphone while driving significantly reduces reaction time and awareness, putting pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists at risk. Nationally, distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of serious injury and fatal crashes," according to the news release. "The police department remains committed not only to enforcing the law but to preventing tragedies like this through education, enforcement, and community awareness."