Billy Hayes - dead at 52
By all accounts, Billy stuck to his word and never worked another day in his life after he quit Coslow’s. At one point, when he could no longer afford to life in Champaign, he was living in Rantoul and would walk, pockets empty, to the Esquire hoping to see a familiar face who would favor him a drink.
Lars noted in recent years whenever he would see Billy around town he would buy him a beer, give him five dollars and a ride. He said he last saw Billy on Friday at the intersection near where he was killed on Saturday, however, the amount of traffic was prohibitive in allowing him to get Billy’s attention to give him a ride.
CHAMPAIGN – Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup released the name of the man struck by a train on Saturday evening.
Northrup said William “Billy” Hayes, 52, of Champaign was struck by a northbound train about 100 yards north of the Springfield Avenue viaduct while attempting to cross the tracks at about 8:25 p.m.
Northrup pronounced Mr. Hayes dead at the scene at about 9:15 p.m. Saturday.
According to Northrup, Mr. Hayes died from multiple traumatic injuries. No autopsy was performed.
Northrup said he is waiting for the results of toxicology tests and that an inquest may be held at a later date.
The incident continues to be investigated by the Champaign County Coroner’s office and the Champaign Police Department.