St. Louis, MO (April 25, 2026) – A longtime St. Louis journalist and media personality was killed on Thursday afternoon, April 23, in a crash on Interstate 64 near Interstate 270.
Friends confirmed that Ray Hartmann, 73, died following a two-vehicle collision involving a semitruck. Authorities reported that the crash occurred when two tires came off the tractor-trailer, with one striking Hartmann’s vehicle. Emergency units responded to the scene and transported him to Mercy Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Officials said the driver of the semitruck remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is leading the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Hartmann was widely known in the St. Louis media community as the founder of the Riverfront Times and later as a magazine editor, political commentator, and television panelist. He had recently remained active in political commentary following his 2024 congressional campaign.
No additional injuries were reported in the incident. The incident remains under review by authorities.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Hartmann.
How Tire Failures on Large Trucks Can Lead to Severe Highway Crashes
When commercial truck tires fail at highway speeds, debris or detached components can become dangerous road hazards. High-speed traffic leaves little time for drivers to react to sudden obstacles in travel lanes.
In some cases, tire or wheel assemblies can strike nearby vehicles directly or cause drivers to lose control while attempting to avoid debris. Multi-lane highways increase the risk due to heavy traffic flow and limited maneuvering space.
Investigations into these incidents often examine tire maintenance, vehicle inspection records, and roadway conditions to determine how the failure occurred and how the impact unfolded.
