EDWARDSVILLE — The Madison County Coroner’s Office on Tuesday identified the victim of a fatal two-vehicle crash Monday night.
In a press release, Madison County Coroner Stephen P. Nonn said Max A. Davis, 24, of Carlyle, Ill., was the driver of a 1993 Ford Ranger traveling north in the southbound lanes of Illinois 255 south of New Poag Road in Chouteau Township. Davis’ pickup collided with a southbound 2005 Cadillac STS and the pickup subsequently burned. The Cadillac driver was transferred to a St. Louis hospital and the driver’s condition was unknown. The crash was called in to 911 emergency dispatchers at 10:21 p.m.
Davis was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:48 p.m. Monday, July 13, by Madison County Coroner’s Supervisory Investigator Deborah B. von Nida. The investigation was unable to conclude if Davis was wearing a seat belt or if airbags had deployed.
An autopsy conducted Tuesday indicated Davis suffered blunt traumatic injuries to the head, chest and abdomen. Further testing remains pending to determine if smoke inhalation played a role in his death. Routine toxicology testing for the presence of alcohol and drugs also will be performed. Davis was positively identified through the use of dental records.
The Illinois State Police continues to investigate the crash.
Funeral arrangements for Davis are incomplete but are under the direction of the Zieren Funeral Home of Carlyle.