September 9, 2003

Attorney Patrick A. Salvi filed wrongful death and personal injury lawsuits on September 9, 2003 against David Dvorak, the Mayor of Essex and South Wilmington Sportsman’s Club. Mayor Dvorak collided with an oncoming motorcycle while driving drunk, killing the 21-year old driver and severely injuring his passenger, Lindsay Saathoff.

On July 23, 2003, Plaintiff Jace Lillis deceased, from Bourbonnais, was operating a Harley Davidson motorcycle in an easterly direction on Illinois Route 113 in Will County, Illinois. Defendant, Dvorak was driving a Ford F-150 truck when he failed to yield and executed a left turn in front of Lillis causing a collision. Lillis was taken to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, Illinois where he died three days later. His girlfriend, Lindsay Saathoff survived however, suffered severe fractures to her leg and hip.

The complaint was filed in the Circuit Court of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit in Will County, Illinois (03 L 552). Attorneys for the decedent's family allege that the Defendant drove in a reckless manner, operated his vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and failed to maintain control and direction over his vehicle. The South Wilmington Sportman’s Club was the registered owner of the vehicle Dvorak was driving.

"The Lillis family suffered a tremendous loss. Jace was a wonderful young man who was loved and respected by all who knew him," said Patrick A. Salvi. "The family is not motivated by money but rather is seeking justice."

Mayor Dvorak was indicted last Wednesday by a grand jury in Will County on charges of reckless homicide and aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol.

Jace Lillis was the son State Trooper Thad Lillis. He left surviving him his mother, Lisa Lillis and his brother, Ryan.

For additional information on the Lillis case, Patrick A. Salvi or Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C., please contact Beth Olzewski, Director of Marketing at 847-249-1227.

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