SAD NEWS: Distracted Driver Runs Red Light, Crashes Into Car of 59-Year-Old—Revealed to Be Chicago Bulls Legend

A routine family outing ended in tragedy this weekend when a devastating car crash claimed national attention—not just for its heartbreaking consequences, but because of who was involved. According to authorities, a distracted driver ran a red light at high speed and slammed into the side of a vehicle carrying a 59-year-old man and his family. What rescuers found when they arrived shocked everyone: behind the wheel was none other than a Chicago Bulls legend, unconscious, battered, and barely clinging to life.

The incident occurred late Saturday afternoon on the outskirts of Chicago, in an intersection known for heavy weekend traffic. Witnesses say the suspect, a man in his 20s, appeared to be looking down at his phone moments before ignoring a red light. His SUV plowed into the passenger side of a dark sedan crossing lawfully through the intersection. The impact was so violent that both vehicles spun out of control, slamming into a nearby utility pole and causing debris to scatter across several lanes of traffic.

Firefighters and paramedics arrived within minutes. As they worked furiously to stabilize the victims and extract those trapped, onlookers began murmuring in disbelief. The man being loaded onto the stretcher bore a striking resemblance to a beloved former NBA star. Paramedics confirmed shortly after: the 59-year-old man was a Chicago Bulls legend—someone whose legacy was forged on the hardwood floor of the United Center during the franchise’s golden years.

Out of respect for the family and the ongoing investigation, officials have not yet released the full name of the victim. But sources close to the situation confirm that the man suffered multiple injuries, including fractured ribs, a broken femur, and serious trauma to the head. He remains in critical condition at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Family members, visibly distraught, were also transported with minor injuries and are expected to recover.

Chicago Bulls players and staff, both current and retired, were quick to react once the news broke.

“This is heartbreaking,” said Bulls Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, visibly shaken during a phone interview. “He’s not just a teammate—he’s family. We spent years battling together on the court, and now all we can do is pray off it.”

Chicago Bulls organization issued a statement late Saturday night:

“We are aware of the tragic incident involving one of our most cherished former players. Our thoughts and deepest prayers are with him and his family during this unimaginably difficult time. We will provide any support necessary as more information becomes available.”

The incident reignited calls from local and state officials to crack down on distracted driving—a problem that has claimed thousands of lives nationwide. Just last year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported over 3,500 deaths attributed to drivers using mobile devices.

“This is what we’ve been warning people about,” said Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. “Taking your eyes off the road for even a second can destroy lives. This wasn’t an accident—it was a preventable disaster.”

The driver of the SUV, whose name is being withheld pending charges, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in custody. Preliminary toxicology reports suggest no alcohol was involved, but phone records confirm he was actively using a messaging app in the moments before the crash.

“I hope this becomes a wake-up call,” said a witness at the scene. “Too many people think texting while driving is harmless. It’s not. A family’s life just changed forever. A legend is lying in a hospital bed fighting to stay alive.”

Fans from around the world quickly flooded social media with messages of support. Hashtags like #PrayForOurLegend, #BullsForever, and #DriveSafe trended across platforms, as tributes poured in from athletes, celebrities, and everyday fans who grew up watching the man soar across the court.

“He was a symbol of resilience, a player who gave Chicago everything he had,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Now it’s our turn to rally behind him.”

The tragic event also sparked discussion among NBA circles about how much legends from past generations still mean to the sport today. Though he’s been retired for years, the former Bull remained active in community work, mentoring young players and making appearances at youth basketball camps across the Midwest. His commitment to the game and to the people of Chicago made him a fixture in the city’s sports culture long after his final game.

“He wasn’t just a player. He was a mentor, a leader, a voice in the city,” said longtime Bulls commentator Chuck Swirsky. “This hits hard because it reminds us how fragile life is, no matter how big the name or how strong the legacy.”

At the United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls, fans began laying flowers, jerseys, and handwritten notes outside the main gates. A memorial wall was quickly erected, where fans left heartfelt messages:

“Thank you for all the memories.”
“You made Chicago proud—now we’re praying for you.”
“Legends don’t fall. They rise again.”

The Bulls plan to honor the former player in their next home game, regardless of his medical status. Team officials have already confirmed that players will wear special patches bearing his initials and number, and a moment of silence will be observed.

Meanwhile, the victim’s family has released a brief statement through a spokesperson:

“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support. While we are still processing the horror of what happened, we ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers. He’s a fighter—he always has been—and we believe he’ll fight through this, too.”

As the legal process unfolds and doctors work around the clock, the basketball world—and the city of Chicago—waits with bated breath. This is not just about a car crash or a senseless act of distracted driving. It’s about the human cost. The lives upended. The pain left behind.

And for millions who idolized this Chicago Bulls legend growing up, it’s about confronting the terrifying truth that even our heroes aren’t invincible.

Yet, if history is any indication, this particular hero has never been one to back down from a fight. The final buzzer hasn’t sounded. Not yet.

And until it does, Chicago will keep its collective heart trained on a hospital room where a legend lies waiting—for another comeback.