Coroner called twice

A press release from the Edgar County Coroner revealed two fatalities resulting from a head-on collision near Redmon on Saturday, July 6; an additional report three days later uncovered a deceased Edgar County resident in his home.

The first release from Edgar County Coroner Scott Barrett shared details on a two-vehicle crash that has resulted in the death of a Farmersburg, Ind. couple.

911 dispatchers were notified at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2024, that an automobile-motorcycle crash had occurred on Illinois Highway 133, approximately two miles west of the Village of Redmon in Edgar County, Illinois.

The crash occurred when a westbound Ford Explorer crossed into oncoming traffic, striking an eastbound motorcycle. The motorcycle had moved onto the highway’s south shoulder but was unable to avoid the head-on collision.

The call was quickly responded to by the Edgar County Sheriff’s Department, Kansas Police Department, Illinois State Police, Horizon Health EMS, Oakland Ambulance services, Paris Fire Department, Redmon Fire Department and Oakland Fire Department. Upon arrival by first responders, it was determined to summon the coroner.

The driver of the motorcycle, Kenneth Ming, 50, of Farmersburg, Ind., died immediately of his injuries. The motorcycle’s passenger, Devona Ming, 54, also of Farmersburg, was treated on scene by Horizon Health Ambulance personnel; however, resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. Both Kenneth and Devona Ming were pronounced dead at the scene.

Official causes of death are pending autopsy examinations to be performed Monday by Springfield forensic pathologist Dr. Nate Patterson.

The incident remains under the investigation of the Illinois State Police, Edgar County Sheriff and Edgar County Coroner.

On Monday, July 9, 911 dispatchers were contacted at 2:59 p.m. and asked to provide a wellness check at a West Madison Street residence.

The caller told operators they were calling from the office of an individual’s healthcare provider and they had been unable to reach him since a visit earlier that day.

The Paris Police Department responded to the call and determined that it was necessary to dispatch the coroner.

Donald Martin Bailey, 59, of Paris, was pronounced dead at the scene by Edgar County coroner Scott Barrett.

The incident remains under investigation by the Edgar County Coroner’s Office. All available evidence is consistent with a natural death.