Deadly tollway crash remains under investigation

Illinois State Police continue to investigate the fiery tollway crash that killed a cab driver from Elgin early Sunday morning, but an official said Monday there is no reason to suspect alcohol or drugs played any role in the deadly collision.

The driver, Melba R, Farr, 56, was killed when her cab was rear-ended by an SUV at 5:09 a.m. on the Jane Addams Tollway near Beverly Road in Hoffman Estates, according to state police. The impact caused the cab to burst into flames, and Farr, who was unable to exit the vehicle, died at the scene, authorities said.

Initial reports indicated Farr was either stopped or backing up in the active far right lane of traffic when the collision occurred.

State Police Master Sgt. Paul Carlos said one witness came forward to report what was seen, but investigators are still working to determine the exact circumstances of the collision.

State police are still trying to figure out what company Farr worked for, because the cab's vehicle registration did not line up with their information of the driver, Carlos added.

The driver of the SUV was treated on the scene and released, and no tickets have been issued.