FREEPORT, Ill. – The community of Freeport and beyond is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Darcy Brunner, 61, the beloved mother of former WNBA star Sophie Brunner, after a double fatal crash in rural Stephenson County on Saturday, August 6th

According to Stephenson County Sheriff Steven Stovall, deputies responded to reports of a serious collision on Route 26 near Oneco Road at approximately 12:38 p.m. Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered two heavily damaged vehicles — a Ford Edge driven by Brunner and a Nissan Altima operated by Rolando Ico-Choc, 30, originally from Guatemala.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Sheriff Stovall said the preliminary investigation indicated that the Nissan Altima, traveling southbound, crossed over the center line into the northbound lane, striking Brunner’s Ford Edge head-on. The force of the impact was devastating, and both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.

Brunner, a well-known figure in the Freeport area, was cherished not only as a mother and grandmother but also as a caring friend, neighbor, and community member. Her daughter, Sophie Brunner, a standout athlete at Arizona State University who went on to play professionally in the WNBA, has often spoken about the deep love and support her family has shown throughout her career — a testament to the close bond she shared with her mother.

The news of Brunner’s passing has sent shockwaves through both the local community and the broader basketball family. Tributes have poured in, remembering Darcy as a woman of warmth, kindness, and unwavering encouragement for those she loved. Friends recall her constant smile and her ability to make everyone feel welcome in her presence.

Authorities say the investigation into what caused Ico-Choc to cross into the opposite lane is ongoing. Toxicology results and other forensic evidence will be part of the final report.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy that has deeply affected our community,” Sheriff Stovall said. “Two lives were lost far too soon, and our hearts go out to both families who are now left to cope with this devastating loss.”

Funeral arrangements for Darcy Brunner have not yet been announced, but family members say they will honor her life by celebrating the love, generosity, and joy she brought to everyone around her.