Ray Hartmann (Photo courtesy of Andy Leonard)
Renowned local journalist and media figure Ray Hartmann tragically lost his life in a highway accident on Interstate 64, just west of Interstate 270. His vehicle was struck by two tires that had separated from a semitruck trailer. The 73-year-old was rushed to Mercy Hospital St. Louis but was pronounced deceased.
Andy Leonard, Hartmann’s longtime friend and legal counsel, released a statement saying: “We believe that he died at the scene. His wife Kerri Hartmann and I were at Mercy Hospital when the doctors explained that he did not respond to their efforts. We’d like to thank the police officers who came to the scene and the doctors and staff at Mercy Hospital who were informative and kind.”
Hartmann is survived by his devoted wife Kerri and his two children, Ben and Brielle.
Hartmann’s professional legacy spans decades in journalism and media. A graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia’s journalism program, he established The Riverfront Times during the 1970s as an innovative alternative newsweekly serving the St. Louis community.
He spent nearly 25 years as the CEO and owner of St. Louis Magazine and was instrumental in creating the acclaimed public affairs television program Donnybrook at Nine PBS, serving as a panelist and lead commentator for 37 years.
“Ray was a cornerstone of St. Louis journalism and a foundational voice of Donnybrook, but most of all, he was our beloved friend,” Nine PBS stated. “For nearly four decades, Ray was at the Donnybrook roundtable, rarely missing a week, delighting viewers with his quick wit and insightful commentary on topics affecting our region.”
Beyond these accomplishments, Hartmann hosted radio news programs, participated on numerous boards, and served as president of Ray Hartmann & Associates. In 2024, he ran as the Democratic candidate for Missouri’s second district U.S. House seat.
“He was brilliant. He was a great friend for the past 50 years,” Leonard reflected.
A memorial service will be held at noon on Wednesday, April 29, at Congregation Temple Israel, located at 1 Alvan D. Rubin Drive in St. Louis. Burial arrangements will remain private.
