LFreeman, Missouri Mourns Talented Chef After Tragic Early-Morning Crash on Missouri Highway 2
Freeman, MO — The Cass County community is grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Brent Gunnels, a talented and well-respected chef from Lee’s Summit, following a tragic single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning. The devastating incident occurred around 2 a.m. on August 3, along Missouri Highway 2, just east of 263rd Street in Freeman.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Gunnels was driving a 2007 Subaru westbound when the vehicle veered off the right side of the road. Authorities report that the vehicle traveled up an embankment, became airborne, and struck a nearby rock bluff. The force of the impact caused the vehicle to overturn before eventually coming to rest in an upright position.
Emergency responders arrived quickly on the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but Gunnels succumbed to his injuries. Officials confirmed there were no passengers in the vehicle at the time of the crash, and no other vehicles were involved in the incident.
Brent Gunnels was known throughout Lee’s Summit and beyond for his culinary skills, vibrant personality, and dedication to his craft. As a chef at a popular local establishment, he earned respect not only for his talent in the kitchen but also for the way he inspired colleagues and brought warmth to those he served.
The restaurant community, friends, family, and longtime patrons have all expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Tributes have been pouring in on social media, where former coworkers and loyal customers are sharing memories of Gunnels’ kindness, passion for food, and infectious smile that lit up every room he entered.
Authorities are still investigating the crash and have not yet released an official cause. It is unknown at this time whether speed, road conditions, or other factors played a role in the incident. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has asked any potential witnesses or drivers who may have seen the vehicle before the crash to come forward with any relevant information.
The section of Missouri Highway 2 where the crash occurred is a rural stretch of road, and residents in the area have long raised concerns about the safety of its curves and shoulders, especially during nighttime hours. Some community members are calling for a renewed focus on rural road safety to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
A memorial is being planned by Gunnels’ family and colleagues, who hope to honor his legacy by celebrating the joy and creativity he brought into so many lives through food and friendship. Further details will be shared in the coming days.
As Freeman and the broader Cass County area come to terms with this loss, the focus remains on remembering Brent Gunnels for the love he shared, the meals he prepared, and the community he helped nourish.
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