Naperville crash victim loved laughter, music, dogs
Emily S. Driscoll was an outgoing animal lover who adored dogs, especially her greyhound, a pooch named Quincy.
Driscoll had "a very bubbly personality," her boyfriend, Niko Vanscoit, said Monday. "She was always laughing and making jokes with everybody."
She also was devoted to Quincy, who came to live with her three years ago from Greyhounds Only, a rescue and adoption organization.
The 22-year-old Naperville woman and her dog were out for a walk Sunday evening when they were both struck and killed by a car.
Police said they were crossing the street at the intersection of Book Road and Rickert Drive around 8:15 p.m. when they were struck by a 74-year-old Plainfield man driving a 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.
Driscoll was taken to Edward Hospital in Naperville where she died from her injuries, authorities said. The dog also was killed.
The driver, Kenneth E. Holmberg, was driving east on Rickert when he struck Driscoll, police said. No citations have been issued.
Loved ones described Driscoll as a sharp-witted, confident, smart and outgoing woman who had a beautiful smile.
She had received a certificate in surgical technology from the College of DuPage and was working at Sky High Sports, her father, Tim Driscoll, said.
She was a graduate of Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, where she played rugby and performed in the orchestra.
Her father said Emily was a good violin player who also liked scrapbooking and video games.
She and Vanscoit met in a gym class and had been dating since their junior year in high school.
"She always had a big heart and she just had a lot to live for in life and she had a lot going for her, a lot of promise and potential," Vanscoit said. "I have never been more honored to be with someone for that long and had intentions of marrying her."
Vanscoit had even given Driscoll a promise ring.
"She wore it almost every day," he said. "She brought out a lot of happiness in me."
Naperville police said the crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call (630) 305-5379 or email parcelk@naperville.il.us.