A 30 year old Altamont man was killed in a semi/bicycle accident early this morning just east of St. Elmo. Illinois State Police reports say that preliminary information details indicate that unit one–a semi–and unit two–a bicycle being ridden by 30 year old Jason Hearty of Altamont, were both traveling westbound on U.S. Route 40, about one mile east of St. Elmo. State Police say Hearty’s bicycle was struck from behind by unit one in the westbound lane. State Police say that Unit One, believed to be a semi, left the scene. Jason Hearty was pronounced dead at the scene by Fayette County Coroner Bruce Bowen. ISP Crash Reconstruction Officers and ISP Crime Scene Investigators are continue to investigate the fatal crash.
Meanwhile, Fayette County Sheriff Chris Smith says they believe they have the driver of Unit One in custody at this time. But, he adds that Illinois State Police are handling that situation at this time.