A well-regarded Wauconda teacher was killed over the weekend in a Wheeling car accident, according to police and school officials.
Robert Gillen, 53, was driving early Sunday morning when his car was struck head-on by a motorist who was in the wrong lane and may have been driving drunk, according to Wheeling police.
Gillen was headed west on Palatine Road, near the Wheeling Road intersection, when his car was struck at 2:15 a.m., police said.
Each vehicle was carrying one passenger. Police said there was one injury that was not considered life-threatening.
In a statement, Wauconda School District Superintendent David Wilm said Gillen had been on staff at Wauconda High School since 1996. He was a math teacher and also an athletic trainer, the district said.
“He dedicated his time to the education of students, the care of athletes, and the growth of colleagues,” Wilm said. “He loved helping others and was committed to fostering a positive environment for all. Bob leaves a lasting legacy, and his loss will be felt throughout our community.”
The school district offered counseling services Sunday for students, and said counselors would be on hand Monday at the school.
Wheeling police said the collision remains under investigation. A reconstruction team was on site Sunday, police said.