Chicago, IL – In a shocking incident that has sent waves across social media and the entertainment world, beloved ventriloquist and singer Darci Lynne Farmer, 19, and her mother, Misty Farmer, were struck by a vehicle while walking in Chicago late Tuesday afternoon. Sources on the scene report that the driver, a 28-year-old local man, was allegedly using a mobile phone at the time and failed to stop at a red light, resulting in the devastating collision.
Emergency services arrived within minutes after multiple eyewitnesses called 911. Paramedics immediately rushed both victims to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where doctors confirmed that Darci Lynne sustained non-life-threatening injuries, including a fractured wrist and a concussion. Her mother, Misty Farmer, reportedly suffered a broken leg and minor bruising but is expected to make a full recovery.
According to Chicago Police Department spokesperson Officer Renee Caldwell, preliminary investigations suggest that distracted driving was a key factor in the accident. “We are treating this as a serious incident involving a failure to yield at a red light,” Caldwell said. “The driver was reportedly using his mobile device at the time of the crash. Charges are being considered, pending further investigation.”
Witnesses at the scene painted a harrowing picture. Jessica Martinez, 42, who was walking nearby with her children, described the chaos. “I saw a car speed through the intersection and hit them. It all happened so fast,” Martinez said. “The crowd that formed immediately helped, and emergency crews arrived very quickly. It was terrifying to see two people, who I later realized were Darci Lynne and her mom, lying there.”
Darci Lynne, who shot to fame as the 12-year-old ventriloquist sensation on America’s Got Talent, has been known for her upbeat and bubbly personality. Fans worldwide have followed her meteoric rise, watching her perform with puppets like Petunia, Oscar, and Edna on national television and sell out concerts across the country. The news of her involvement in a pedestrian accident has triggered an outpouring of support from fans and fellow entertainers.
Social media erupted with concern after initial reports circulated. On Twitter, posts using the hashtag #PrayForDarciLynne have gone viral, with fans expressing shock and sending wishes for her speedy recovery. “Sending all my love and prayers to Darci Lynne and her mom,” one fan tweeted. “Stay strong, queen of puppets! 💖” Another wrote, “Darci Lynne has brought so much joy into the world. Can’t believe this happened. Hoping they’re okay.”
Despite the frightening circumstances, hospital sources have assured the public that both Darci Lynne and Misty Farmer are stable and receiving excellent care. Doctors emphasized that while the injuries are significant, there is optimism for a full recovery. Hospital staff also noted the duo’s remarkable resilience, with Darci reportedly cracking jokes about her favorite puppets to lighten her mother’s spirits even from her hospital bed.
The driver involved, whose name has not been publicly released due to pending charges, was reportedly cooperative with law enforcement. Police stated that toxicology and mobile phone use verification tests are underway to confirm distracted driving at the time of the collision. Depending on findings, the driver could face charges ranging from reckless driving to aggravated battery.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement on Wednesday afternoon expressing concern and solidarity with the victims. “Our thoughts are with Darci Lynne Farmer and her mother, Misty Farmer, as they recover from this tragic accident,” the statement read. “Distracted driving is a preventable risk, and this incident underscores the importance of putting our phones away and following traffic laws. The city will do everything in its power to support victims of such incidents and hold accountable those responsible.”
The accident also reignites conversations about pedestrian safety, particularly in busy urban intersections. According to data from the Chicago Department of Transportation, pedestrian accidents caused by drivers failing to stop at red lights have increased by 12% over the past two years. Advocacy groups have long pushed for stricter enforcement of distracted driving laws and improved pedestrian infrastructure, including longer crossing times and better signal visibility.
Darci Lynne’s management team has released a brief statement from her hospital room, asking for privacy while she and her mother recover. “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support,” the statement read. “Darci Lynne and Misty are receiving excellent care and are in good spirits. We kindly ask the public and media to respect their privacy as they focus on healing.”
The entertainment community has also rallied around the young star. Fellow ventriloquist Tina E. Smith, who toured with Darci Lynne last year, tweeted, “I am heartbroken to hear about Darci and Misty. They are both incredible human beings. Please send them all the love and positive energy you have.” Meanwhile, Darci’s former AGT judges and coaches have expressed shock and support on social media, emphasizing her talent, resilience, and positive impact on young performers everywhere.
Legal experts note that this case could have significant consequences for distracted driving enforcement in Illinois. Attorney Michael Simmons, a Chicago-based personal injury lawyer, explained, “Incidents like this highlight how dangerous phone use behind the wheel can be. Illinois has specific laws against using handheld devices while driving, and if negligence is proven, the driver could face both criminal and civil liability. Darci Lynne and her family may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering.”
Meanwhile, fans have already begun organizing support campaigns, from social media fundraising to fan art and messages of encouragement. One group is planning to create a virtual card for Darci Lynne that features hundreds of messages from children and fans around the globe, emphasizing the joy her performances have brought to their lives.
As investigations continue, city officials have promised to review the intersection where the crash occurred, seeking to prevent future tragedies. Police are urging witnesses to come forward, particularly anyone who may have video footage from nearby surveillance cameras or smartphones that could clarify the sequence of events.
For Darci Lynne, known for turning life’s challenges into creative energy through her puppetry and performances, this moment is another chapter in a life marked by resilience and determination. Fans are confident that, with her mother by her side, she will recover and return to the stage stronger than ever. In the meantime, her story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of vigilance on city streets.
Chicago residents, fans, and the entertainment world will undoubtedly continue to follow updates closely. For now, prayers, support, and well wishes are flooding in from every corner of the globe as Darci Lynne and Misty Farmer focus on healing and recovery.
Praying for Darci & her Ma. Hoping they get well soon & recieving excellent care.