Dupage Policy Journal

A former resident of Homer Glen has been sentenced to twelve years in prison for a fatal DUI crash. DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that Robert Ebel, 55, was sentenced by Judge Margaret O’Connell in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Ebel had previously entered a blind plea of guilty to one count of Aggravated DUI – Accident Causing Death.

The incident occurred on August 22, 2020, when Ebel was driving a 2015 Tesla at high speed on I-55 near Cass Avenue in Darien. He attempted to pass a semi-truck on the right shoulder and collided with a disabled Toyota occupied by John Exner, who later died from his injuries. Authorities found amphetamine, cocaine metabolite, cocaine, and THC in Ebel's system at the time.

State’s Attorney Berlin commented on the case: “Mr. Ebel’s incredibly dangerous behavior that afternoon cost John Exner his life.” He expressed hope that the sentence would provide some closure to Exner's family and friends and help Ebel understand the consequences of his actions. Berlin also thanked the Illinois State Police and Assistant State’s Attorneys Jennifer Lindt, Denis Cahil, and John Segoviano for their roles in the case.

Ebel is required to serve 85% of his sentence before parole eligibility but will receive credit for 958 days already spent in custody.