Illinois car accident resulted in multiple injuries and the heartbreaking death of Reese Ramsey and a 68-year-old woman.
Reese Ramsey emerged as one of the most promising young basketball talents in the Tri-States area, leaving an indelible mark on the Pittsfield High School basketball program and the entire community.
Her journey from middle school phenomenon to high school sensation captured the hearts of basketball enthusiasts throughout Illinois.
During her time at Pikeland Middle School, Ramsey established herself as an exceptional athlete, leading her team to a state championship with remarkable performances.
In one memorable state quarterfinal game at Germantown, she demonstrated her extraordinary shooting ability by scoring 25 points – more than half of her team’s total 42 points – in a decisive victory against T-Town.
The Lady Braves, with Ramsey as their driving force, went on to secure another state title with a nineteen-point victory over the host team.
As a freshman at Pittsfield High School, Ramsey quickly adapted to the increased competition level.
Though her varsity debut against South County showed initial growing pains, she responded to the challenge with characteristic determination.
Her breakthrough came during the Lady Tiger Classic in Beardstown, where she helped transform the Lady Saukees into a formidable defensive force under coach Noah Mendenhall’s guidance.
Congratulations @REESE_RAMSEY_15 on winning the MVP award of the Lady Tiger Classic. pic.twitter.com/kta5cnO0om
— Mr. and Mrs. 25/8 (@258Mentality) January 2, 2025
One of Ramsey’s most memorable performances came in a thrilling matchup against powerhouse Quincy Notre Dame at Voshall Gymnasium.
The game drew crowds reminiscent of the Lisa Farrell and Matt Elledge era, with Ramsey fearlessly challenging All-Stater Sage Stratton in an intense display of competitive spirit.
Her performance that night signaled the bright future ahead for Pittsfield Lady Saukee Basketball.
Beyond her scoring prowess, Ramsey’s work ethic and enthusiasm for the game set her apart.
She trained regularly with accomplished coaches like Courtney Belger and Ali Schwagmeyer-Belger, consistently impressing them with her dedication and skill.
Her scoring trajectory had observers speculating that she might become one of the Top Ten IHSA All-Time Scorers.
Devastating Car Accident Claims the Life of Reese Ramsey and Another Victim in Pike County
On Tuesday evening, February 11, 2025, at approximately 6:21 p.m., a devastating accident occurred on Illinois Route 106 near 335th Street in Pike County.
According to Illinois State Police reports, a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado attempted to pass a tractor and collided head-on with a 2014 Jeep in which Ramsey, referred to as a teenager, was a passenger.
The crash involved three vehicles: the Silverado driven by Eric Harris, age 72, of Springfield; a Case Magnum truck tractor operated by Nathan Reed, age 51, of Barry; and the Jeep carrying Ramsey and other teenagers.
The impact caused both the Silverado and Jeep to strike the tractor, which overturned.
Tragically, Ramsey and a 68-year-old woman from Pittsfield, who was a passenger in the Silverado, were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The drivers of both the Silverado and the Jeep, along with another juvenile passenger, were airlifted to area hospitals with serious injuries. Reed sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
This is tough @REESE_RAMSEY_15 🔥🔥🔥. Except for when you are breaking me in half on film 🥹. Always a pleasure to link up with you @ChrisDuerr 🤝 pic.twitter.com/rdjfZtBU6u
— Mr. and Mrs. 25/8 (@258Mentality) October 11, 2024
The news of Ramsey’s passing deeply affected the Pikeland community, prompting Superintendent Todd Fox to cancel classes and provide counseling services for students, staff, and community members.
Fox stated in his announcement to the Pikeland family, writing,
“There are no words that can fully express the sorrow and pain we feel as a school community.”
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She was known for her infectious energy, determination, and ability to inspire those around her.
Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family, friends, teammates, and the entire Pittsfield community, who will remember her not just as a talented athlete but as a bright light who touched countless lives during her brief but impactful time.
Additional Information
- After her debut varsity game against South County, her father remarked how unhappy she was with her shooting. When someone jokingly suggested blaming “the stupid media” for raising expectations, her father indicated that the challenging debut only motivated Reese more.
- She was known for being a “whirling dervish of pigtails and step back jumpers” on the court, showcasing her distinctive style of play.
- She played travel basketball, where she was highly regarded by experienced coaches and was a teammate of some of the area’s most accomplished players.
