A devastating car accident in Reno, Nevada has left the San Antonio Empire Volleyball Club’s 14 Legacy team in mourning after a fatal crash claimed the life of a beloved grandmother and left a young athlete fighting for her life on Interstate 15.
The incident occurred over the weekend while the team was in Reno to compete in a volleyball tournament. According to multiple posts shared by coaches and family members, seven members of the 14 Legacy family were involved in a major vehicle collision that turned a joyful sports trip into a scene of heartbreak.
Albert Hernandez, one of the team’s coaches, wrote on social media, “Yesterday in Reno my team experienced a tragic and traumatic experience. We are mourning the loss of a devoted, loving, caring, beautiful grandmother and one of the most wonderful players is in critical condition.” He added, “My heart is broken as I’m still in shock and disbelief.”
The player critically injured in the crash has been identified by family as Ellie Bratton. Her uncle, Adrian Uriegas, shared that Ellie sustained life-threatening injuries and is expected to remain hospitalized in Reno for at least two weeks. Her sister Emma, who was also in the vehicle, fortunately escaped with only minor injuries.
Ellie’s family and community have rallied around her with an outpouring of love and support. Keri Cantu Brickerson, another family member, posted, “Please help our Bratton family as Ellie will have a long road to recovery. Anything will help, especially prayers. We love you, Ellie.”
The San Antonio Empire Volleyball Club posted an emotional statement on Sunday, asking the broader volleyball community to lift Team 14 Legacy in thoughts and prayers. “Today and for the near future, please keep 14 Legacy in your thoughts. If you are a praying family member, we ask you to lift 14 Legacy in prayer as they mourn a dearly devoted grandmother and wish an injured player a speedy recovery. Your Empire family is alongside you and nothing else matters this moment.”
As the Bratton family faces the road to recovery and the team copes with loss, the volleyball and youth sports communities are showing incredible support. Fundraisers and support efforts are expected to be launched in the coming days to assist with Ellie’s medical bills and funeral expenses for the late grandmother.
At this time, official details from authorities about the cause of the accident have not been publicly released.
🕊️ Community Support and How to Help
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Prayers and emotional support are being requested by the family.
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Donations and GoFundMe links may be posted by the family or club in the coming days to help with recovery expenses.
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Friends and supporters are encouraged to share words of encouragement and love to uplift the team and affected families.
As the San Antonio Empire Volleyball family grieves, they remind us all how quickly life can change—and how important it is to hold our loved ones close.
#PrayFor14Legacy 🧡
#EmpireStrong
#EllieStrong