TAYLOR RIDGE, IL, (May 31, 2026) — A two-vehicle collision near Taylor Ridge on Sunday evening claimed the life of Seaton Fire Chief Brenton Collins, according to the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said Collins, 38, was driving a passenger vehicle when it collided with a truck at approximately 6:30 p.m. at the intersection of 134th Avenue West and 105th Street West, an area commonly referred to as Crawford’s Corner.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and pronounced Collins deceased.
The driver of the truck was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries, officials said.
Collins was widely known throughout the community for his service as Seaton Fire Chief and as a veteran. The Seaton Fire Department paid tribute to him in a social media post, noting that he was always willing to help others, whether responding to emergency calls or assisting neighbors in need.
The department also highlighted Collins’ love of the outdoors, including deer hunting and fishing. In addition to his firefighting duties, Collins had recently completed his second year as the Mercer County High School bass fishing coach.
The crash remains under investigation by the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office.
