Rockford single-vehicle rollover crash claims life of Bradley Acaley
In Rockford, Illinois, the community is grieving the loss of 49-year-old Bradley Acaley of Mount Morris, who passed away in a severe single-vehicle crash early Saturday morning. The tragic accident happened at the intersection of South Main Street and Prairie Road, on the southwest side of Rockford.
Location and Time of the Incident
According to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and emergency response crews were dispatched around 2:30 a.m. after reports of a vehicle crash involving a person trapped inside. When units from the Blackhawk Fire Department and New Milford Fire Department arrived, they discovered the vehicle approximately 85 feet off the roadway, indicating the impact and force of the crash.
Victim Details
The victim, identified as Bradley Acaley, age 49, was a resident of Mount Morris, Illinois. Authorities confirmed that he was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash. Despite immediate efforts from emergency responders, Acaley was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Winnebago County Coroner’s Office.
Details of the Crash
Investigators determined that the crash was a single-vehicle rollover, meaning no other cars were involved. The car reportedly left the road at high speed before overturning and coming to rest deep into a nearby ditch or field area, roughly 85 feet away from the main roadway. The impact caused significant damage to the vehicle, making rescue efforts difficult when first responders arrived.
The area where the crash occurred is known to have sharp curves and limited visibility at night. Authorities have not yet released an official cause of the crash, but they are investigating whether speed, weather conditions, or a possible mechanical issue may have contributed to the vehicle losing control. Alcohol or impairment has not been confirmed, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Emergency Response
Upon arrival, fire and rescue personnel worked to safely access the vehicle and assess the situation. Deputies with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office secured the area, while paramedics checked for any signs of life. Once the coroner arrived, Acaley was officially pronounced deceased. The roadway remained closed for several hours as investigators conducted scene analysis and removed the vehicle.
Community Reaction
The news of Bradley Acaley’s passing has deeply affected both the Mount Morris and Rockford communities. Friends and family described him as a kind, dependable man who cared deeply for those around him. Tributes have been shared online, with many expressing sorrow over his sudden loss and offering condolences to his loved ones.
Residents living near South Main and Prairie Road have also voiced concerns about road safety, especially during the early morning hours when lighting is limited and speeding is more common. Some have urged local authorities to consider adding improved signage or reflective barriers to reduce future accidents in the area.
Ongoing Investigation
The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Officials are urging anyone who may have been traveling in the area between 2:00 and 3:00 a.m. Saturday morning and witnessed any unusual activity — such as a vehicle swerving or traveling at high speed — to contact them. Detectives are also reviewing potential surveillance footage from nearby businesses or residences to help piece together what happened before the crash.
Summary
In summary, the tragic crash at South Main Street and Prairie Road in Rockford, Illinois, claimed the life of 49-year-old Bradley Acaley of Mount Morris early Saturday morning, November 2, 2025. He was the only person in the vehicle, which rolled over and came to rest 85 feet off the road. The incident remains under investigation as family, friends, and the wider community mourn his loss and hope for answers about what led to this heartbreaking event.