Naperville man killed in single-vehicle crash

A 2011 Naperville Central High School graduate who loved hockey and Notre Dame football died early Saturday after the sport utility vehicle he was driving struck a tree in Naperville, police said.

Thomas Gleason, 18, who lived on Fox River Lane, was transported to Edward Hospital in Naperville after police responded to a 911 call about a single-vehicle crash at about 1 a.m., police said in a news release.

Gleason, who was to attend Illinois State University this fall, died at the hospital, according to Naperville police, who responded to the call with the Naperville Fire Department.

Gleason was driving a 2006 Toyota Pathfinder west on Canyon Run Road at Bristlecone Court when his vehicle left the road and struck a tree in front of a house at 1845 Golf Drive, police said. Canyon Run Road ends at Golf Drive. Gleason was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, according to police.

A relative at the family home who identified herself as Aunt Kathy (but was reluctant to provide a last name), described Gleason as “very safety conscious,” adding that he always encouraged others to wear seat belts.

Tom, as he was known to family and friends, developed his passion for hockey when he played the game as a youngster, his aunt said. A loyal supporter of Naperville Central’s team, he attended every game, she said.

His passion for Notre Dame came from his father and uncle who both attended the university, Kathy said.

“He was a fun kid,” she said.

Gleason’s vehicle struck the tree head-on and was heavily damaged, Naperville police Cmdr. Ken Parcel said. Road conditions were clear and dry when the crash occurred and authorities do not believe any environmental factors contributed, he added.

Gleason’s aunt said the family does not know what caused the crash.

Police said Saturday the accident remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the accident is encouraged to contact police at (630) 305-5285.