A tragic incident on Interstate 64 occurred on Thursday, April 23, claiming the life of Ray Hartmann, a well-known journalist and key figure in St. Louis media. The collision unfolded in West St. Louis County at approximately 2 p.m. local time and involved two tyres detaching from a Volvo VNL and striking Hartmann’s Chevrolet Bolt.
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According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), the Volvo lost two tyres on its left side, which became airborne and struck the roof of Hartmann’s vehicle. Emergency medical services transported him to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival, at 2:05 p.m.
Ray Hartmann was 73 years old at the time of his untimely death. He was not only a prominent journalist but also a former Congressional candidate in Missouri. His passing has elicited an outpouring of grief from colleagues and friends, including attorney Andy Leonard, who remembered Hartmann fondly in a statement to Fox 2. Leonard expressed gratitude towards the first responders and hospital staff for their professionalism and compassion during a heartbreaking situation.
The driver of the Volvo VNL involved in the incident is a 64-year-old man, who remained at the scene. At this point, his identity has not been disclosed publicly. Authorities are continuing their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Hartmann’s contributions to journalism in St. Louis are noteworthy. He founded the Riverfront Times (RFT) in 1977, a publication that has been instrumental in covering local news and culture. A decade later, he co-launched “Donnybrook,” a lively debate programme that aired on Nine PBS. Hartmann remained a stable presence on the show for many years, becoming a well-respected figure in the local media landscape.
In 1998, Hartmann made a significant return to St. Louis journalism by reviving St. Louis Magazine (SLM) after selling the RFT to Phoenix’s New Times. His dedication to the craft saw him return to RFT in 2018 as a freelance columnist, continuing to share his insights and opinions with the community until his retirement in 2024.
In a statement, Nine PBS expressed deep sorrow over Hartmann’s passing, acknowledging the tremendous impact he had on the community and on the station itself. They noted that he was a beloved friend and a foundational voice on “Donnybrook,” highlighting his quick wit and strong opinions that resonated with audiences for nearly four decades.
Hartmann is survived by his wife, Kerri, and their two children, Ben and Brielle. His family and friends will remember him not only for his contributions to journalism but for his vibrant personality and sharp intellect.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the profound impact that one individual can have on a community. Ray Hartmann will be sorely missed by those who knew him and by the many lives he touched through his work.