Mmmmm St. Joseph, Missouri – The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Tristian Plumley, a 23-year-old motorcyclist who tragically lost his life following a crash on the Belt Highway in the early hours of Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
According to the St. Joseph Police Department (SJPD), the accident occurred around 1:57 a.m. at the intersection of North Belt Highway and Blackwell Road, a heavily traveled section of the city that quickly became the scene of a tragic collision involving multiple motorcycles.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered two motorcyclists involved in the crash. One of the riders sustained injuries and was rushed to Mosaic Life Care for treatment. The second rider, identified as Tristian Plumley, was found unresponsive at the scene. Emergency responders with Buchanan County EMS transported him to Mosaic Life Care, where he was tragically pronounced dead.
Tristian’s death has sent shockwaves through his hometown. Friends, family, and community members describe him as a vibrant and compassionate young man, full of life and deeply passionate about motorcycles, family, and adventure. A St. Joseph native, Tristian was known for his kind heart, magnetic personality, and loyalty to those he loved. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of many who knew him.
In a troubling development, the SJPD reported that a third motorcycle was involved in the incident, but the rider fled the scene before police arrived. Investigators worked swiftly to identify the individual, and by Wednesday afternoon, authorities had confirmed the identity of the third motorcyclist. The SJPD Traffic Reconstruction Unit has since been called in to piece together the chain of events that led to the fatal crash, and the investigation remains active and ongoing.
The department released an image depicting the third motorcyclist captured during the incident in an effort to gather more information from the public. The SJPD continues to encourage anyone with information to come forward as they work to determine whether charges may be filed.
While the details surrounding the crash are still under investigation, the community has already begun to rally in support of Tristian’s family. A growing memorial near the crash site marks the place where he tragically lost his life, and several local groups have discussed organizing rides and fundraisers to honor his memory.
In addition to being a motorcycle enthusiast, Tristian was known for his work ethic and deep love for his family. He leaves behind parents, siblings, and a wide circle of friends who now face the unimaginable task of saying goodbye far too soon.
Funeral arrangements for Tristian Plumley are currently being planned, and details will be shared by the family in the coming days.
As the community grieves, the SJPD urges anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has further information to contact them directly. Authorities are committed to ensuring that all aspects of the incident are fully examined and that justice, if warranted, is pursued.
Rest in peace, Tristian Plumley. Your memory will forever ride in the hearts of those you’ve left behind.
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