HANNIBAL, Illinois — The tight‑knit towns around Adams County were shaken Thursday afternoon when 19‑year‑old Anastasia M. Maiden lost her life in a traffic crash on Interstate 172, south of Quincy. Friends and family described her as full of promise and life, a young woman with bright days ahead, gone too soon.
The crash happened just after 3:30 p.m. on January 29, 2026, when an SUV she was riding in collided with a semi‑truck on the southbound lanes near mile marker 8, according to the Adams County Coroner’s Office. The SUV’s front end was crushed in the impact, and emergency crews pronounced Anastasia dead at the scene. There were no other serious injuries reported from the collision.
Traffic came to a standstill for hours as first responders worked. Southbound lanes from Exit 10 at Illinois 96 down to Exit 2 at Illinois 57 remained closed into the night while investigators pieced together what happened. Illinois State Police are handling crash reconstruction, and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and Coroner’s Office continue their separate inquiries into the cause.
People in Hannibal and nearby communities reacted with disbelief and sadness. Messages of support poured in on local social media, with many sharing memories of Anastasia’s laughter and kindness. She was remembered as someone who lit up rooms, cared deeply for her friends, and had plans and dreams that now will never unfold.
“It’s just heartbreaking,” said one neighbor. “She had her whole life in front of her. You never expect something like this to hit so close to home.” The community has been gathering quietly — at homes, at schools, and in prayer circles — to support grieving families and one another.
Officials have not released a detailed account of how the collision occurred. Crash reconstruction by state police may take days, and investigators are urging anyone with information or dash cam footage from the area around the time of the crash to come forward.
In the meantime, the Adams County Coroner’s Office issued condolences to Anastasia’s loved ones, acknowledging the deep impact of her loss. As the investigation continues, neighbors and friends are holding onto memories of her smile, her spirit, and the moments that made her special to so many. Updates will be shared as more details become available.
