BELLEVILLE - A 15-year-old Belleville West High School football player remains hospitalized with burns to approximately 75% of his body after a fatal crash in Cahokia Heights, Illinois, earlier this month, according to a Sept. 29, 2026, statement from his family’s attorneys. His family has retained a law firm to investigate how the crash happened and whether student transportation safety requirements were followed.
G’Mauri Hodges, a sophomore on the school’s varsity football team, is recovering from surgery, according to the statement released by JJ Legal. His family is seeking answers about the transportation arrangements while focusing on his recovery.
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The crash occurred near the intersection of Illinois Route 15 and Pocket Road. Citing public reporting, the law firm said a vehicle carrying six Belleville West students and two adults collided with another vehicle, struck a traffic signal pole and caught fire. One student died, and the other occupants were taken to area hospitals for treatment.
JJ Legal, the business name of The Driscoll Firm, P.C., said its independent investigation will examine the vehicle’s use, the driver’s qualifications, applicable safety requirements, transportation arrangements and events leading up to the crash. The firm said no final conclusions have been reached.
“We need to know who arranged this transportation, what safeguards were in place, and whether those responsible met their obligations to these students,” said John J. Driscoll, an attorney with JJ Legal.
The family thanked first responders, good Samaritans, and the medical staff caring for G’Mauri, as well as supporters in the Belleville community and beyond.
“We will never forget the people who stepped up when our family needed them most,” the family said in its statement.
The family said it wants a thorough investigation and accountability for anyone whose actions or failures contributed to the crash.
“Right now, our focus is on G’Mauri and helping him through the long road ahead. But we also need answers,” the family said. “These children were entrusted to others for their safety, and we need to understand how they ended up in this situation.”
The family asked that G’Mauri’s privacy be respected as he undergoes treatment.
