Mattix Sandifer of Gallatin County died in a tragic accident that occurred on IL-34 one mile west of Harco Road.
Mattix Sandifer was a class of 2024 boys’ varsity basketball player from Gallatin County High School in Junction, Illinois, where he played as a shooting guard and small forward.
His highlights from the 2023-2024 season showcased consistent activity and contributions to his team, with recorded performances against multiple opponents, including Hardin County, Crab Orchard, Edwards County, Norris City-Omaha-Enfield, and Pope County.
During his senior season, Sandifer’s highlight clips feature three-pointers, game sequences, and key plays, demonstrating his shooting ability and versatility on the court.
His public highlight views exceeded 250, and he maintained a small but growing following in the local basketball community.
Basketball Player Mattix Sandifer Died In A Tragic Accident
Gallatin County High School’s basketball player Mattix Sandifer took his last breath on Friday, August 8, 2025, in a tragic accident.
As per the reports, the accident occurred on IL-34 one mile west of Harco Road just before 2 a.m.
Two people were airlifted to a regional hospital, and one person, Mattix, was pronounced dead on the scene.
Luis Rubio, who works at Mowing Company, took to his official Facebook handle and mourned the loss of Mattix. He wrote,
aid my baller post was coming 🏀🙏 Mattix Sandifer had a talent not most had or have around here when I came to the basketball sport. He came to be for training after knowing him for years prior. So of course I was so excited to take him and him allowing me too. A college athlete and a good friend of mine. This man really had wing 🪽 on him !! I love you little brother and always will. Like I said there won’t be a thing I won’t do without thinking about you brother. Dunk brothers 😂😞 my best friend and my twin !!
Luis Rubio
The Southern Illinois Select Basketball team also took to their official Facebook handle and offered their heartfelt condolences by stating,
The SI Select family has lost a beloved member with the passing of two-year alum Mattix Sandifer. Mattix played on an AAU World Championship team in 2022 and a Reebok World Championship in 2023. Mattix will be remembered as a popular teammate and ultimate team player, who was dedicated to the team’s success and never missed a game or tournament once he joined the program. He cared about the team more than he cared about himself or his own personal stats. He went on to continue playing for Riley and Sam for a season at SIC this past fall. He will be missed!
Southern Illinois Select Basketball
Other close ones and relatives have also poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Mattix’s family to stay strong in this heartbreaking moment.
As per Mattix’s family, the services for his celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
He will always be remembered for his unforgettable contribution as a basketball player for Southern Illinois and Gallatin County High School.
Rest in Peace, Mattix Sandifer.
Family Also Mourned The Loss Of Mattix Sandifer
Mattix Sandifer was born to his mother Jessica Lynn Sandifer and his father, whose identity has not been revealed.
According to Jessica’s Facebook profile, she lives in Greenville, Illinois, and has been working at Copper Dock since August 10, 2019.
On August 9, 2025, Mattix posted on her Facebook and mourned the loss of her son, Mattix. She wrote,
n this day they will bring Mattix back to ridgway for the last time . I would like to have a fire 🔥 at Kali and Doug’s . I invite you all to bring a log and come laugh and tell tales about Mattixs impact on your life . Let’s gather please . I need to smile and no one could make me smile like him. Please come tell me what you remember. Everyone young or old or just plain saddened ,bring a log and let’s keep the fireside tales going. Pop up after dark. We will greet you with a grin. Feel free to share this post. Let’s celebrate the LEGEND Mattix Sandifer will always be.
Jessica Lynn Sandifer
Family and relatives have sent their heartfelt condolences and prayers to Mattix’s parents to stay strong in this heartbreaking moment.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- As per Mattix’s Facebook handle, he has been in a relationship since March 25, 2022.
- Mattix was 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighed 155 lbs.
