Dawson Stacey Obituary, Car Accident Ridgway, Illinois: Gallatin County High School Mourn Loss Of Recent Graduate

With broken hearts, we remember 18-year-old Dawson Stacey of Ridgway, Illinois, whose life tragically came to an end in a serious traffic collision in White County on Wednesday afternoon. His sudden passing has brought profound sadness to his family, friends, classmates, and loved ones.

The crash happened at approximately 4:21 p.m. on September 23, 2026, near the intersection of Illinois 141 and County Road 6. Illinois State Police reported that a westbound pickup truck crossed the center line for reasons that have not yet been determined and collided with a semi-trailer carrying grain in the eastbound lanes.

Dawson sustained fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced deceased by the White County Coroner’s Office. The crash caused a large spill, resulting in a prolonged road closure while investigators worked at the scene. The roadway reopened at approximately 1 a.m. Thursday.

Dawson was a 2026 graduate of Gallatin County High School. His death represents a painful loss for those who watched him grow, shared experiences with him, and looked forward to the years ahead.

Authorities have not released further details about the investigation, and funeral arrangements are pending.

As loved ones remember Dawson, the moments they shared with him will remain a lasting part of their lives. May his family find strength in the love surrounding them, and may the memory of Dawson continue to be honored by everyone whose life he touched.