Oak Brook teen charged with reckless homicide after crash that killed couple

An Oak Brook teen has been charged with two counts of reckless homicide after a car crash that killed a couple in Downers Grove in March.

Francesco Rendina, 17, of the 0-100 block of Royal Vale Drive, is accused of recklessly driving an SUV at speeds that reached 104 mph before he hit another car on March 27, killing Ried Jacobsen, 72, and his wife, Katherine, 67.

Officials say Rendina was speeding in a 2022 BMW X3 and changing lanes in a reckless manner as he drove southbound on Highland Avenue at about 6:53 p.m.

An investigation showed Rendina was driving 104 mph five seconds before the crash and 89 mph in a 45-mph zone when he hit the couple’s Honda CR-V as they were turning left onto Highland from 35th Street, authorities said.

Ried Jacobsen was pronounced dead at the scene. Katherine Jacobsen was transported to a hospital, where she died as a result of her injuries.

The couple had been married for 39 years, according to their obituary. A memorial service is set for May 16.

A petition by the state to detain Rendina until his trial was denied. As part of the condition of his release, Rendina is prohibited from driving a motor vehicle and possessing or consuming alcohol or any controlled substance other than as medically prescribed.

His next court appearance is scheduled for June 15.