The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Larry Anderson Taken In Fatal Traffic Accident

A fatal traffic accident occurred Monday evening sadly taking the life of lifetime Henderson County resident Larry Anderson, 85, of rural Gladstone. Larry was a farmer, cattleman, active member and strong supporter of the Illinois Farm Bureau, the Henderson County Republican party, the Methodist Church and the Christian belief. (see:obit.p10)

The incident occurred after dark around 7:20 p.m. Daylight Savings Time, Monday, October 27, 2014 at IL Route 94 at Henderson County Road 1350 North-the road many people take from Route 94 when traveling to Weir Fruit Farm and a road where Anderson may have been taking to return to his farm home and cattle ranch.

According to Illinois State Police, Lawrence "Larry" A. Anderson, 85, of Gladstone was driving his 1999 Buick LeSabre northbound on IL 94 at CR 1350 North in Henderson County when, for reasons unknown, stopped facing north, in the southbound lane.

Phillip A. Butler, 54, of Stronghurst, driving a Peterbilt truck-tractor, was southbound on IL 94 and drove into the northbound lane trying to avoid the Anderson vehicle.

However, Anderson drove back into the northbound lane and Butler struck the vehicle in the driver's door pushing it approximately seventy-five feet from the point of impact.

Anderson died at the scene of the accident and Butler received minor injuries.

Agencies responding were the Henderson County Sheriff's Office, Stronghurst Police Department, Oquawka Police Department, Gladstone Fire Protection District, Biggsville Fire Protection District, MST Fire Protection District, Gladstone Ambulance, Biggsville Ambulance, Med Force (Fort Madison Hospital), Henderson County Coroner's Office, and the Illinois DOT.