v, IL Car Accident: A Student from Lane Tech in Chicago Passed Away Following a Collision on Lake Shore Drive.

 The Lane Tech College Prep High School community is grieving the passing of 16-year-old student Elias “Eli” Kim, who tragically lost his life due to a car accident on Lake Shore Drive on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

As per his family's account, Elias was driving home by himself when the incident took place. He sustained critical injuries and ultimately died despite the medical attempts to save his life.

His father, Jim Kim, conveyed a poignant message reflecting on his son's life, passions, and personality. In a heartfelt note, he stated:

"Elias, my son who was just 16, passed away on Thursday night after succumbing to the injuries he received in a horrific car accident. He was driving home alone on Lake Shore Drive, much too fast, without wearing his seatbelt, and he paid a heavy price for youthful recklessness."

Jim continued to portray Elias as an individual with remarkable artistic inclinations and an unwavering motivation to excel in everything he pursued.

"This young man had exceptional taste. He truly had an eye for beauty and design," he mentioned. "He delved deeply into photography over the past few years; it seemed like his gateway into a life full of creative expression. Stacy and I were thrilled to see where his artistic talents would lead him."

Aside from his artistic ambitions, Elias was also commemorated for his intense determination and dedication to hard work.

"One scorching summer, he decided he wanted to become a soccer player, so he practiced every day in the park honing his abilities until he became a really good soccer player," his father recounted. "Eventually, he wanted to learn to fight, so he diligently went to a boxing gym week in and week out… Then he aspired to be a skateboarder, and that’s where he discovered his tribe, his community."

Jim highlighted that Elias never avoided hard work and faced every challenge with enthusiasm:

"This young man devoted himself to his goals. He was clear about what he aimed to achieve and was unafraid of the grind. He enjoyed the process and was fortunate to have talent."

The demise of Elias Kim has left his family, friends, and the school community in deep sorrow. Lane Tech students and staff are anticipated to pay tribute to his legacy in the near future as they come to terms with the loss of such a gifted and ambitious young man.

His father concluded his statement with simplicity: