ST. LOUIS, MO — The St. Louis community is in mourning following the sudden and tragic death of Ray Hartmann, a towering figure in Missouri journalism and the founder of some of the city’s most influential publications.
Hartmann, 73, was killed in what authorities are describing as a horrific “freak accident” on the interstate involving a tractor-trailer. According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, Hartmann was traveling on the highway when two semi-truck tires became detached from a passing tractor-trailer. The heavy tires barreled into Hartmann’s vehicle, crashing through the roof.
His family believes he was killed instantly at the scene.
A Foundational Voice of St. Louis
Ray Hartmann’s influence on the local media landscape cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer who shaped the way St. Louisans consumed news and culture for over four decades:
- The Riverfront Times: Hartmann founded the iconic alternative weekly in 1977, providing a platform for investigative journalism and local arts.
- St. Louis Magazine: He later founded this staple publication, which continues to be a primary source for local lifestyle and news.
- “Donnybrook”: For nearly 40 years, Hartmann was a fixture on the Nine PBS debate program, where his sharp wit and passionate arguments made him a beloved—and sometimes controversial—local celebrity.
“Kindred Spirits and Brothers”
The news has sent shockwaves through the local media industry. Charlie Brennan, a fellow panelist on “Donnybrook” who spent years debating Hartmann on air, expressed his deep grief.
“Ray Hartmann is actually in a book about St. Louis characters. He was a character. A character we all loved,” Brennan told local media, adding that after decades of intellectual sparring, the two were “kind of like brothers.”
Nine PBS released a statement echoing these sentiments, calling Hartmann a “cornerstone of St. Louis journalism” and a “foundational voice” of their programming. Most importantly, they remembered him as a “beloved friend.”
Community Honors a Legend
Hartmann’s wife, Kerri, shared the family’s devastation: “It’s such a tragic loss. He was dearly loved. We’re going to miss him so much.”
A makeshift memorial has already been established at the Nine PBS building to honor Hartmann’s life and career. Colleagues, readers, and viewers have begun leaving flowers and notes, paying tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth and public discourse in St. Louis.
The Missouri Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the mechanical failure that led to the tires becoming detached from the tractor-trailer. No information has been released regarding potential charges against the trucking company or driver involved.
Share Your Memories of Ray Hartmann
Ray Hartmann was a voice that defined St. Louis for generations. Whether you read the Riverfront Times or watched him every week on Donnybrook, he likely touched your life in some way.
How will you remember Ray Hartmann? Share your favorite memories of his reporting or his legendary debates in the comments below.
