Author: Charlie Sam

New Bedford, IL – April 9, 2025 — The tight-knit community of Walnut and Bureau County is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Todd Maynard, who passed away Monday night at the age of 39 following a courageous two-month battle with NUT carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

Todd was the son of Mike Maynard, co-founder of TCI Manufacturing, and Sue Maynard. Known for his toughness on the football field and his gentle heart off it, Todd’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him.

In a statement shared by TCI Manufacturing, where the Maynard family has long been deeply rooted, the company described Todd as “a kind and genuine soul—always quick with a smile and a friendly word.” The statement continued, “Our hearts are with Mike and Sue, Todd’s wife Dana, his children, the Maynard family, and all those feeling this loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

Todd Maynard was not only a devoted husband to Dana and a loving father to their two young daughters—he was also a legend in the Bureau Valley athletic community. A graduate of Bureau Valley High School, Todd once dominated the gridiron as a powerhouse running back and linebacker. He graduated in 2004 as the all-time leading rusher in Bureau County, with 4,001 yards and 56 touchdowns, ranking 30th in Illinois High School Association history.

“He was everything you wanted in a leader,” said Brad Monier, quarterback of the 2004 Bureau Valley state runner-up team and a longtime admirer of Maynard. “From middle school on, I looked up to Todd. His work ethic, toughness, and the intensity with which he practiced and played were unmatched. In addition, he was so humble with his success.”

Former Bureau Valley coach Jason Kirby echoed those sentiments. “Todd was a better person than he was a football player—and he was a two-time all-stater,” Kirby said. “His commitment to being the best player and person he could be was instrumental in everything we accomplished. When I think of Bureau Valley football, Todd Maynard is one of the first thoughts that comes to mind.”

Todd’s football prowess was undeniable. From a breakout sophomore season with 1,445 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, to a gritty junior year where he tallied 1,501 yards, despite playing through injuries, Todd embodied resilience. He capped his high school career with a third consecutive 1,000-yard season and helped lead the Storm to the playoffs, paving the way for the team’s state championship just three years later.

Known for his hard-hitting defensive style, Todd once famously said, “I’d rather be the hitter than be the hittee.” But beyond his athletic achievements, it was his humility, loyalty, and heart that made him so beloved. Whether in the locker room, at work with Advanced Asphalt Company, or home in New Bedford, Todd was the kind of person who made everyone around him better.

A graduate of Western Illinois University, Todd returned to his roots and remained a proud resident of Bureau County. He continued to inspire those around him not just through stories of athletic glory, but through the way he carried himself—humble, hardworking, and always putting others first.

In her emotional Facebook post, Todd’s wife Dana wrote, “Todd has gone home to be with Jesus. After a two-month battle with cancer, he is now in Heaven.” Her words reflect the faith, strength, and love that have always been at the core of the Maynard family.

Todd Maynard’s legacy will live on—not just in the record books, but in the memories, hearts, and lives of everyone he touched. His story is one of courage, community, and compassion—a reminder that greatness is defined not just by what you achieve, but by who you are.

Funeral service details will be announced by the family at a later date.

In loving memory of Todd Maynard.
1986 – 2025
A fierce competitor. A kind soul. Forever a Storm.

Albuquerque, NM – April 9, 2025 — A man is in critical condition after a harrowing suicide attempt on Interstate 40 in Albuquerque on Wednesday morning. The incident, which unfolded near the Carlisle Boulevard overpass, caused a major traffic shutdown and mobilized multiple emergency response units.

According to preliminary reports from law enforcement and emergency services, an adult male, described as intoxicated at the time, was seen walking erratically along the rails of the bridge above I-40. The situation quickly escalated when the man jumped from the bridge onto the interstate below, where he was struck by a passing vehicle.

The unidentified man suffered extensive injuries, including two broken legs, multiple fractures throughout his body, and a severe laceration to his head. Emergency Medical Services (EMS), fire crews, and police quickly responded to the scene and rushed the man to a nearby hospital, where he is currently listed in critical condition.

Traffic came to a standstill as first responders managed the scene and the medical evacuation. Authorities temporarily closed a significant stretch of the I-40, causing major congestion and delays that rippled as far as the Tennessee/North Carolina border, due to the traffic backlog and incident response coordination.

Albuquerque law enforcement agencies confirmed that mental health concerns were at the center of the incident, and they are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the man’s condition and actions leading up to the event.

This marks yet another suicide attempt in the city—a growing concern for public safety officials and mental health advocates. Albuquerque has seen a steady increase in mental health-related emergencies, prompting calls for more resources, intervention programs, and public awareness campaigns to address the crisis.

“We are seeing more and more cases like this,” one first responder noted. “People are in pain, and unfortunately, many feel like they have nowhere to turn. It’s a reminder of how important mental health support is in our community.”

The Albuquerque Police Department urges anyone who witnesses someone in crisis to call 911 immediately and to utilize available mental health resources.

Authorities have not released the man’s name out of respect for his privacy and family. No charges have been filed as the focus remains on his recovery and well-being.

As of late Wednesday afternoon, the affected section of I-40 has been reopened to traffic. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to listen and offer support. You are not alone.