Lemont Rallies for Beloved Local Deaf Man Injured in Hit and Run

Do you know this face?

Robbie Riley is a local favorite. The 34-year-old is autistic and deaf, the latter a consequence of being born with fetal alcohol syndrome. He can usually be spotted walking about town, to and from work or Lemont businesses. But you might have noticed he has been missing from the local landscape.

Riley was on foot, en route home from his job at Franciscan Village just before 8 p.m., when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver on Nov. 19. Riley was walking on the side of Main Street near Kotlin Road, when the unknown vehicle struck him. He suffered a broken leg and arm, and has been healing ever since. The case remains unsolved.

While he heals, friends will throw a benefit in honor of the “sweet, gentle man,” to help offset medical costs and cover repairs to his apartment, which has flooded since the accident. The benefit will be held Saturday, Dec. 12, at Gelsosomo’s Pizzeria, 206 Main St., from 8 to 11 p.m. The evening will include raffles and silent auctions, food, and music by The Fort Awesome Band.

“Robbie is getting stronger everyday with therapy, but still has many months of rehab to go,” said organizer Theresa Vejvoda.

“I know together, we can all make a big difference and have a great benefit become a reality to help our friend during his long journey of recovery.”

Vejvoda is still welcoming raffle prizes and silent auction items, and can be contacted at 630-512-1898. Also, if you cannot attend the benefit but would still like to donate, contact Vejvoda.

Anyone with information about the hit-and-run should call the Sheriff’s Police Investigations Section at 708-865-4896.