Five young lives gone too soon

Alma Lee Buhnerkempe  July 10, 2017 – April 28, 2025
Ainsley Grace Johnson Feb. 16, 2017 – April 28, 2025
Bradley James Lund April 4, 2017 – June 2, 2025
Kathryn Susanne Corley  June 22, 2017 – April 28, 2025
Rylee Denae Britton Nov. 8, 2006 – April 28, 2025

What started as a typical day in April turned to tragedy after a catastrophic crash at the YNOT building in Chatham, which houses a popular afterschool program. The events of one day made news around the world, leaving an entire community grieving and five families forever changed.

Alma Buhnerkempe , Ainsley Johnson, Bradley Lund, Kathryn Corley and Rylee Britton died from their injuries sustained that day, but eight months later, their legacy lives on.

Seven-year-old Alma Buhnerkempe was a people person. She was the girl who always had jokes up her sleeve.

“She was kind, she had so much energy and just she loved being around family,” remembered her mother, Billie Buhnerkempe. “She loved being around friends. She had the most fear of missing out of any person I’ve ever met.”

Whether it was soccer, Girl Scouts or gymnastics, the athletic girl loved being the center of attention. Alma had an infectious laugh and could often be found practicing her handstands throughout her family’s home.

Alma was usually found playing at YNOT with her best friend, Kathryn Corley. The 7-year-old was fondly known as “Kit Kat” by those close to her.

“If you were to meet her, within the first few minutes, she would tell you her name is Kit Kat and cats are her favorite animal,” her mother, Elizabeth Corley said. “She would have said Kit Kats are her favorite candy bar because that’s her name.”

Kit was a social butterfly with a big heart and a side of sass. The artistic girl was a certified “Swiftie,” even getting the unforgettable chance to see Taylor Swift in concert. Kit’s love for the pop star was evident as people from across Illinois sent friendship bracelets to honor Kathryn at her memorial.

Ainsley Johnson was a happy girl, her enthusiasm always on display, much like her signature smile. The second-grader loved her family and could often be found cuddled up on the couch with her parents and sister by her side.

Her parents remember their 7-year-old as a sweet child, always willing to lend a helping hand.

“Want to help me cook supper, Ainsley? Want to help clean?” Christy and Todd Johnson recalled. “She liked to help bake. She just liked to help and do everything.”

Ainsley was full of energy, a team player on both the soccer field and in the dance studio. Following her tragic passing, the Johnson family created a dance scholarship at Studio M to honor Ainsley.

Ainsley’s classmate, Bradley Lund, was considered a teddy bear. He was a lovable boy who had a caring heart toward everyone from his sisters to his classmates.

“I would say he was the protector,” said his father, Daniel Lund. “Bradley would watch over his sisters. He would watch out for the quiet kid at school.”

The 8-year-old loved Legos and playing video games, anything that involved building.

On that fateful day in April, Bradley was airlifted to HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. He passed away from his injuries 35 days later. The sweet boy with glasses gave the ultimate gift of life through organ donation. And while his family would give anything to have Bradley in their arms, his parents say they are proud to know their son helped another child.

Rylee Britton always knew she wanted to be a teacher. The senior at Glenwood High School was just weeks away from graduation, with plans to attend University of Iowa in the fall. The 18-year-old split her time among school, interning in an elementary school classroom and working as a counselor at YNOT.

Rylee had a knack for helping children, often bringing home the crafts she would make with her campers as she shared stories of the funny things the kids would say. 

Rylee’s joy and kindness touched everyone she met. With a nurturing disposition, she leaves behind a legacy of courage and inspiration.

“The stories that people share about their experiences with Rylee and how she affected them, the role she played in their lives, they are so important and comforting,” said her father, Zachery Britton.

It only takes one day, one tragedy, to change the trajectory of your life. On April 28, five families faced the unimaginable loss of their children. But in the wake of their devastation, the village of Chatham and communities across central Illinois came together to support those who felt the immense grief. Red ribbons became a symbol of hope, and the saying “Chatham Strong” quickly became a sign of resiliency.

As people continue to honor and remember Alma, Ainsley, Bradley, Kathryn and Rylee, plans are underway to install a memorial monument at Chatham Community Park. And as you drive down Walnut Street in Chatham, five trees can be seen in front of the YNOT building, honoring each of those precious lives: Alma, Ainsley, Bradley, Kathryn and Ryleee.

Five unforgettable children. Forever in our hearts, forever in our community.

Watch the Newschannel 20 tribute here.

Stacey Skrysak is a television journalist, writer and public speaker who has been an anchor at Newschannel 20 since 2015. She is the mother of a 22-week surviving triplet and two children in heaven. Through her experience, she’s become a voice for child loss, infertility and premature birth. 

This article appears in January 1-7, 2026.