A 21-year-old Algonquin resident killed in a motorcycle crash in rural Sleepy Hollow on Thursday is described as a person who was “always happy” and “could light up a room.”
Sleepy Hollow Police said emergency personnel were called to the intersection of Randall Road and Technology Drive at 6:48 p.m. Thursday for a crash with injuries.
Upon arrival, responding officers observed a heavily damaged 2024 Yamaha motorcycle and 2023 Subaru Forester.
Preliminary investigation showed the driver of the Yamaha motorcycle was traveling south on Randall Road when it struck the Subaru, which was traveling north and turning west onto Technology Drive.
Police later identified Caden Palka, 21, of Algonquin, as the driver of the motorcycle.
He was transported to Sherman Hospital where he was pronounced dead due to his injuries, authorities said.
The Driver of the Subaru, 22-year-old Sleepy Hollow woman, was transported to St. Joseph Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Early investigation indicates that speed and aggressive or reckless driving may be contributing factors to this crash, authorities said.
Sleepy Hollow Police activated the Kane County Accident Reconstruction Team to assist with the accident investigation.
Sleepy Hollow was also assisted by the Elgin Police Department, the Kane County Sheriff’s Department, the Kane County Office of Emergency Management and the Rutland Dundee Fire Department.
Randall Road was closed for several hours while the crash was investigated, authorities said.
According to his obituary, Palka was a graduate of Huntley High School, was currently working as a construction apprentice, and was studying to become a pilot.
“Caden had a smile that could light up a room and was always happy and upbeat,” the obit reads. “He loved dirt biking and gaming and brought energy and joy wherever he went.”
Visitation for Palka will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, with a service at 7 p.m., at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley.
“Though his time with us was far too short, Caden’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved him, and his spirit will forever ride free and soar above,” the obit reads.