Thomas S. Ripley Obituary, Death: Bicyclist hit by tow truck in Fairmont City identified.

Thomas S. Ripley Obituary, Death – A 22-year-old man from Fairmont City tragically died after being hit by a tow truck while riding his bicycle early Friday morning in St. Clair County, Illinois. Authorities identified the victim as Thomas S. Ripley, who lived in the 3700 block of Cookson Road in Fairmont City. The incident occurred on Collinsville Road, near the intersection with Illinois Route 203. According to St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr., Ripley was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:35 a.m.

The Illinois State Police (ISP), who are leading the investigation, reported that both the tow truck and Ripley were heading west in the left lane of Collinsville Road at the time of the crash. For reasons still under investigation, the tow truck struck Ripley from behind.

Details surrounding the circumstances of the collision have not yet been released, and it remains unclear whether visibility, speed, or any other contributing factors played a role. Authorities also have not said whether the bicyclist was wearing reflective gear or had lights on his bicycle, which are common safety measures when traveling at night.

As the investigation continues, no charges or citations have been reported against the tow truck driver, whose identity has not been made public. ISP has not confirmed whether alcohol, fatigue, or distraction might have been involved in the incident.

The deadly crash has shocked the Fairmont City community, where Ripley lived. Though limited information has been shared about him, his untimely death has left loved ones grieving. Friends and family are beginning to express their sorrow and condolences online and in the neighborhood.

Traffic fatalities involving bicycles are not common but have raised growing concern among safety advocates, especially in areas where infrastructure may not be well-designed to accommodate cyclists. The tragic loss of a young man like Ripley has once again brought attention to the importance of sharing the road safely and being aware of vulnerable travelers like cyclists and pedestrians—particularly during night hours.

Collinsville Road, the location of the accident, is a busy corridor in St. Clair County and includes stretches that may not have dedicated bike lanes or adequate lighting. Community members are urging local and state officials to re-evaluate road safety conditions to help prevent future tragedies.

The Illinois State Police are continuing to gather evidence and have not released a timeline for when their investigation will conclude. Witnesses or anyone with additional information about the crash are encouraged to contact ISP to aid in the inquiry.

In the meantime, family and friends of Thomas Ripley are left to mourn a sudden and devastating loss, remembering a young life that ended far too soon. No details about funeral arrangements have been released yet.