ALTON — A vehicle crashed into a building under renovation on the 2500 block of College Avenue late Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, causing structural damage but no injuries, authorities said.
At 9:56 p.m. Nov. 6, emergency crews from the Alton Fire Department and Alton Police Department responded to the scene after a car jumped the curb and struck the building, Alton Battalion Chief Derrick Richardson said. The driver of the vehicle was taken into custody by Alton Police.
The building, located in the 2500 block of College Avenue, was vacant at the time of the accident and was undergoing extensive remodeling by owner Ryan Schlueter, who plans to open a new event venue, The Wick, in the building and house his business, the Red School Candle Company.
Schlueter describes The Wick as “a coffee bar and event space in Upper Alton featuring live music, community events, workshops, and handcrafted candles” with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Schlueter said he has been working on the property for about a year, tuckpointing walls and preparing the space to house a candle-making business with custom-scented candle stations and a small stage for live music.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said on Friday morning, Nov. 7, 2025, that he is waiting until the afternoon to release any additional information on the crash for the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office to review the case.
“The hole is probably 2 feet by 3 feet, and the damage is bowing the inside of the wall out,” Schlueter said. He noted that the driver appeared to be passed out behind the wheel and remained on the gas pedal, burning out tires before striking the building.
Schlueter said the building is insured, and he plans to file a claim and seek masonry contractors to repair the damage, though he noted there are not many available in Alton. He had hoped to host a family Christmas party at the location, but said that now seems unlikely. His goal remains to open the business by the spring of 2026.
The Red Candle Company intends to focus on candle sets, custom scents, and local live music performances. Schlueter described plans to start with coffee and sodas at the venue, but with city approval, he intends to talk to local brewers about possible packaged drinks once everything is approved and up and going.
Schlueter plans to install a stage in the building and hopes to promote the music scene with original bands and local groups.
