Araceli Zepeda of Rochelle Death and Obituary – A devastating car crash on Interstate 88 in Lee County, Illinois, has claimed the life of 27-year-old Araceli Zepeda of Rochelle. The fatal accident occurred on the morning of October 20, 2025, leaving several others injured and prompting an ongoing investigation by state authorities.
According to the Illinois State Police, the two-vehicle collision occurred just after 9:22 a.m. on westbound I-88 near milepost 71, between Rochelle and Ashton. Zepeda was a passenger in a Mazda CX-7 traveling westbound when a Ford Transit Connect rear-ended the SUV. The impact caused the Mazda to lose control, veer off the roadway, and roll over several times before coming to a stop in a nearby ditch.
The violent rollover led to multiple ejections. Araceli Zepeda was among three passengers ejected from the Mazda. Emergency responders airlifted her to a Rockford hospital with critical injuries. Despite extensive medical efforts, she was pronounced dead at 7:59 p.m. that evening.
Three other occupants of the Mazda were also seriously injured and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The driver of the Ford Transit was taken to a hospital as well, though the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
The Illinois State Police, in collaboration with the Winnebago County Coroner’s Office, is leading the investigation into the crash. Authorities have confirmed that an autopsy was completed, but the official cause of death is pending further studies. Investigators are examining factors such as speed, driver impairment, and seat belt use as part of their ongoing analysis.
Traffic along I-88 was temporarily disrupted as law enforcement officers conducted accident reconstruction and cleared the scene. No charges have been announced at this time.
The loss of Araceli Zepeda has deeply affected the Rochelle community and her loved ones. According to an obituary published by WREX, Araceli is remembered as a devoted daughter, mother, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched many lives. She is survived by her parents, Mario and Leslie Zepeda, and her three children, who now face life without her guiding presence.
Funeral arrangements have been made through Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle. Visitation will take place on October 27, followed by funeral services on October 28. Friends, family, and community members are invited to gather in remembrance of Araceli’s life and to support her grieving family during this difficult time.
The tragedy serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. Authorities continue to urge drivers to remain attentive and cautious, especially on high-speed highways like Interstate 88.