Alex Bullard was a young and talented farmer, athlete, and father who died in a tragic car accident on June 10, 2021. He was 27 years old and left behind his wife, two children, and a large family and community who loved him.
This article will provide some background information on Alex Bullard, the details of the accident that took his life, the investigation and search efforts that followed, and the reaction and support from his friends and family.
Background of Alex Bullard
Alex Paulsen Bullard was born on October 10, 1993, in Streator, Illinois to Paul and Sharlene Bullard. He grew up in Odell, Illinois, and attended Flanagan-Cornell High School, where he excelled in academics, sports, and leadership. He was active in 4H and FFA and showed a passion for agriculture and cattle. He played baseball throughout his school years and continued to play at the collegiate level for Illinois State University. He graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business.
After graduation, he became the farm manager and herdsman of Bullard Cattle Company, his family’s business. He was responsible for every aspect of the farm operation, from breeding to marketing. He was also involved with the Simmental and Charolais breeds within the cattle industry. Alex loved his job and was proud of his achievements.
Alex had many hobbies and interests besides farming. He enjoyed anything with a motor and a steering wheel, such as motorcycles, cars, trucks, and tractors. He also liked hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors. He was a fan of sports, especially baseball and football. He was a loyal supporter of the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears.
Alex married Kellie Pilalis on June 22, 2018, in Princeton, Illinois. They had two children: Halle, who was two years old at the time of his death, and Krew, who was only seven weeks old. Alex adored his family and was a devoted husband and father. He was also a loving son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend to many. He had a warm personality, a generous heart, and a great sense of humor. He was always ready to help others and make them smile.
The Accident and Alex Bullard’s Passing
On Thursday, June 10, 2021, Alex Bullard was driving his pickup truck on Route 23 near Cornell, Illinois when he collided with another vehicle around 5:30 p.m. The other vehicle was driven by a 16-year-old girl who was traveling southbound on Route 23. According to the police report, she failed to yield at a stop sign and entered the intersection where Alex’s truck was traveling northbound. The impact caused both vehicles to roll over several times before coming to rest in a ditch.
Alex Bullard suffered fatal injuries from the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Livingston County Coroner. The teenage driver of the other vehicle was airlifted to OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria with serious injuries. She survived the accident but remained in critical condition as of June 13. There were no other passengers or vehicles involved in the accident.
The news of Alex Bullard’s death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and community. He was well-known and respected in the area for his involvement in agriculture, sports, and church. He was a member of Christ Community Church in Gridley, Illinois where he served as a youth leader and mentor. He also coached youth baseball teams and taught agriculture classes at local schools. He touched many lives with his kindness, generosity, and faith.
Investigation and Search Efforts
The accident that killed Alex Bullard is still under investigation by the Illinois State Police District 6. They are working to determine the exact cause of the crash and whether any charges will be filed against the teenage driver. They are also looking into the possibility of any mechanical or environmental factors that may have contributed to the accident.
The police report stated that both drivers were wearing seat belts during the collision. However, some witnesses claimed that they saw Alex Bullard being ejected from his truck during the rollover. This raised questions about whether his seat belt malfunctioned or came loose during the crash.
The police searched for Alex Bullard’s body for several hours after the accident but could not find him initially. They used drones, helicopters, dogs, and volunteers to comb through the area around the crash site. They eventually located him in a nearby cornfield around 9:30 p.m… His body was taken to OSF Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center in Pontiac for an autopsy.
Reaction and Support
Alex Bullard’s family and friends expressed their grief and sorrow over his sudden and tragic death. They also shared their memories and tributes to him on social media and in the local media. They described him as a loving, caring, hardworking, and fun-loving person who had a positive impact on everyone he met. They also thanked the people who helped in the search and rescue efforts and offered their prayers and support.
A funeral service was held for Alex Bullard on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, at Christ Community Church in Gridley, Illinois. Pastor Andy Huette officiated the service and delivered a message of hope and comfort. He said that Alex Bullard was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and that he was now in heaven with his Savior. He also encouraged the attendees to honor Alex’s legacy by living with joy, gratitude, and love.
The burial followed the service at Cornell Cemetery in Cornell, Illinois. Alex Bullard was laid to rest next to his paternal grandparents, Robert and Sharon Bullard, who preceded him in death. His family requested that memorial contributions be made to his wife and children at Flanagan State Bank.
Alex Bullard’s death was a devastating loss for his family and community. He was a young man who had a bright future ahead of him and a lot to offer to the world. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.
