A suburban Chicago man accused of causing a deadly DUI crash that killed a 35-year-old woman has been denied pretrial release as prosecutors continue to pursue charges connected to the fatal collision, according to authorities in DuPage County.
Officials identified the defendant as Dwayne Rushing, 48, of South Elgin. Prosecutors allege that Rushing was intoxicated when he crashed into another vehicle in Lombard on the evening of May 10, leading to the death of Laura O’Keefe and seriously injuring a passenger riding with her.
According to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, the crash occurred shortly before 5:30 p.m. near the 2700 block of South Highland Avenue, just north of Butterfield Road. Investigators say Rushing was driving southbound when he rear-ended one vehicle before allegedly steering around it, crossing over a grass parkway, and striking a black Subaru Outback that was stopped at the exit of a shopping plaza.
Authorities said Laura O’Keefe suffered catastrophic injuries in the collision. Prosecutors stated that she underwent emergency surgery and was placed on life support before later dying from her injuries on May 12. A passenger inside her vehicle reportedly sustained serious injuries and required treatment in an intensive care unit.
Rushing has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence causing death, a Class 2 felony, and aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm, a Class 4 felony. A judge granted prosecutors’ request to keep him in custody pending further court proceedings.
During the investigation, officers allegedly observed signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and unsteady movement. Prosecutors also claimed that an open alcoholic beverage was found inside the vehicle. According to officials, testing later showed Rushing’s blood alcohol concentration was 0.116, above Illinois’ legal driving limit.
