ST. LOUIS, MO – Colleen Lischwe, a 34-year-old coach from St. Clair County, Illinois, was tragically killed in a crash on I-44. Lischwe, who served as the Head Coach of both the Men’s and Women’s Water Polo Teams at McKendree University, was known for her leadership, passion, and dedication to her athletes.
The accident occurred near Vandeventer Avenue on I-44 eastbound. According to preliminary reports from St. Louis City Police, Lischwe was driving her Toyota Prius eastbound when it was rear-ended by a semi-truck. The force of the impact sent her car off the road, over a snow drift, and onto Vandeventer Avenue.
The semi-truck driver told authorities that he had briefly looked down to grab a drink and, upon returning his attention to the road, noticed traffic had slowed too late to avoid the collision. Eyewitnesses described the scene as devastating, with one noting that traffic had been slowing when the crash occurred.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, transporting Lischwe to a local hospital where she was later pronounced dead. The St. Louis City Police Accident Reconstruction Team is currently investigating the crash to determine the exact sequence of events and assess whether charges will be filed against the semi-truck driver.
Lischwe’s tragic passing has left a deep void at McKendree University and in the broader community. University officials expressed their heartbreak over the loss, describing her not only as a coach but also as a mentor and role model to her athletes. “Colleen was more than just a coach; she was a guiding force in the lives of her players, and her loss is felt deeply,” a university spokesperson said.
As the investigation into the fatal crash continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the St. Louis City Police Department. The community, McKendree University, and the water polo world mourn the loss of a dedicated coach and influential figure.