The Accident
According to Crawford County Sheriff Bill Rutan, the incident occurred shortly after noon on Illinois 1, a straight stretch of road. Keown was driving southbound when his Tesla hit a guardrail and veered into a ditch. A passenger, identified as Matthew Redd, suffered serious injuries and was transported to an Evansville hospital. Emergency crews attempted to airlift Redd, but due to adverse weather conditions, he was taken by ambulance. Redd was alert at the scene but lost consciousness en route to the hospital and was placed on a ventilator.
The sheriff’s office is currently investigating the accident, including whether the vehicle was operating in self-driving mode at the time of the crash. They have reached out to Tesla for assistance in retrieving data related to the incident.
Keown’s Legacy
Keown’s athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He excelled at Memorial High School, where he scored 1,766 points in basketball, ranking among the top five all-time scorers in Evansville. His versatility also shone through in baseball and football, making him one of the most accomplished athletes in the Southern Indiana Athletic Conference during the 1990s.
His impact extended beyond the field as he became a beloved figure in the community. Friends and family have expressed their grief over the loss, remembering him not just for his sports achievements but for his character and generosity.
Community Response
The news of Keown’s passing has sent shockwaves through the Evansville community. Fans, fellow athletes, and former teammates have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories of the sports icon. His legacy as a talented and passionate athlete will continue to inspire future generations.
Conclusion
Clint Keown’s untimely death is a profound loss for the Evansville community and the world of sports. As investigations into the accident continue, those who knew him are left to remember the incredible athlete and the remarkable person he was. His contributions to local sports will not be forgotten, and his memory will live on in the hearts of many.