Matt Thomas Valparaiso IN Accident, GoFundMe: On Sunday, April 6th, the Valparaiso, Indiana community was shaken by heartbreaking news: Matt Thomas, a beloved local teacher and passionate cyclist, was seriously injured in a devastating accident while out on one of his regular bike rides. What began as a peaceful Sunday ride turned into a life-changing event when Matt was struck by a pickup truck—and in a tragic twist, the driver ran over him a second time while he lay on the ground.
The injuries Matt sustained are extensive. With multiple fractures to his hips, pelvis, and femur, he now faces a grueling path to recovery. He has already undergone emergency procedures and will require multiple additional surgeries, followed by months of rigorous physical therapy. Doctors have made it clear that this will not be a quick recovery—it will be a journey marked by pain, perseverance, and an overwhelming need for support.
In the wake of this tragedy, the outpouring of love for Matt has been nothing short of inspiring. Friends, colleagues, students, and neighbors have united behind a single mission: to help Matt heal, recover, and return to the life he loves. Matt Thomas isn’t just a name in a headline. He’s a cornerstone of the Valparaiso High School community. As a dedicated teacher, he has spent countless hours shaping young minds, investing in students, and pouring passion into every lesson. His classroom is more than just a place to learn—it’s a place of encouragement, creativity, and respect.
Students speak of Matt with admiration and gratitude. Whether it’s helping someone struggling with a tough concept, staying late to tutor, or simply offering a listening ear, Matt consistently goes above and beyond. His absence from the classroom in the coming months will be deeply felt—but even more so, the school and greater community are determined to be there for him, just as he has always been there for others.
Outside of the classroom, Matt is known for his boundless energy and love of life. An avid cyclist, he often spent his free time exploring Indiana’s backroads and bike trails, finding peace and freedom on two wheels. Cycling wasn’t just a hobby—it was a part of who he is. His enthusiasm for the sport inspired others, and many in the local cycling community looked up to him for both his dedication and friendly nature.
But Matt’s passion extends far beyond teaching and biking. Friends describe him as someone who “lights up a room” with his smile and laughter. He’s the kind of person who shows up for others without hesitation—the kind of friend who listens, supports, and uplifts. And now, it’s our turn to do the same for him. In response to the accident, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by Matt’s sister, Laura Ringnalda, who wrote movingly of her brother’s strength and need for support in this critical time:
“On Sunday, April 6th, our beloved brother, friend, teacher, and cycling enthusiast Matt was involved in a devastating accident. While out on one of his regular bike rides, Matt was struck by a pickup truck. As he lay on the ground, the driver tragically ran over him again—causing multiple fractures to his hips, pelvis, and femur. Matt now faces a long, painful road to recovery. He will undergo multiple surgeries, followed by months of intense physical therapy just to regain the ability to walk. Matt is not one to ask for help—but right now, he needs all of us.”
The fundraiser aims to help cover the immense medical and legal costs Matt will face in the months ahead. Hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and the loss of income during his recovery period are only part of the challenges Matt and his family are now grappling with. Every donation, big or small, is a lifeline—an expression of love and support from a community that refuses to let one of its own face this battle alone.
At the time of writing, hundreds have already contributed, leaving heartfelt messages of hope, sharing fond memories, and spreading the word to others. It’s a testament to the kind of person Matt is—someone whose impact ripples outward in ways he may not even fully realize. Tragedy has a way of testing us. But it also reveals the strength of our bonds. In Valparaiso and beyond, people are stepping up for Matt—not just because he needs help, but because he’s earned the love and respect of so many.
His journey toward recovery will be long. It will be painful. But it doesn’t have to be lonely. We often talk about community as a concept. In this case, community is action. It’s teachers taking over Matt’s lessons. It’s students organizing a card drive. It’s cyclists planning a benefit ride in his honor. It’s neighbors dropping off meals. It’s strangers donating to a man they’ve never met but feel they know through his story.
