Aurora woman remains hospitalized after crash that killed brother
A 24-year-old Aurora woman remained hospitalized in critical condition Sunday with injuries suffered two days earlier in a crash that claimed the life of her brother.
Janella Harrell was injured and Jarred X. Harrell, 21, also of Aurora, killed in the head-on collision that occurred about 6:34 p.m. on Route 30 near Fifth Street in Oswego. The siblings were driving home from nearby Plano, where they had just watched a younger brother play for Aurora Christian High School’s basketball team in a holiday tournament.
On its Facebook page, Aurora Christian schools paid tribute to Jarred Harrell, a 2010 graduate.
“As a school family we mourn with the Harrell family today at the loss of Jared Harrell,” a posting reads. “We pray for strength and peace for the family and we thank Jesus for the promise of eternal life for those who are in Christ.”
Those commenting remembered Jarred Harrell as a good friend and good influence on his peers.
On Saturday night, a moment of silence was held before Aurora Christian’s semifinal game of the Plano Christmas Classic. Johnathan Harrell played in the game.
Police said a preliminary investigation determined that the vehicle driven by Janella Harrell was traveling east on Route 30, east of Fifth Street, when it crossed the centerline of the roadway and was struck by a vehicle heading west, which was driven by 61-year-old Stephen P. Pierce of North Aurora. Pierce, who was also transported to Rush-Copley, was treated and released, police said.
Police said the crash is still under investigation, but there is no indication of impaired driving by either of the parties.