Doug Lebda, LendingTree CEO, Dies in Freak ATV Accident on His North Carolina Farm [PHOTOS]

Doug Lebda, the founder and chief executive officer of LendingTree, has died following a tragic all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident at his family’s farm in North Carolina over the weekend, the company confirmed.

The 55-year-old financial visionary and father of three was remembered by his colleagues and family as a compassionate leader whose innovation helped transform the online lending industry.

At the time of his death, Lebda’s net worth was estimated at $305 million, according to Benzinga. Details surrounding the accident remain limited, with the company declining to disclose the farm’s location out of respect for the family’s privacy.

In a heartfelt statement released Monday, Lebda’s wife, Megan Lebda, 37, reflected on his life and legacy:

“It is impossible to capture the depth of who Doug was and what he meant to all of us. He was an amazing man with a heart so big it seemed to have room for everyone he met.

Doug was compassionate, generous, and endlessly curious about the world and the people around him. He made friends everywhere he went. His energy was magnetic, his smile contagious, and his presence a source of comfort and inspiration.

Doug’s greatest joy was seeing others succeed. His generosity knew no limits, and his kindness touched every single person who crossed his path. He lifted people up, believed in their potential, and celebrated their wins as if they were his own.

He took care of everyone he loved — family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. He always made sure everyone knew how deeply he cared.

Our hearts are broken, but we are deeply grateful for the love and support that has poured in from across the world.”

Lebda founded LendingTree in 1996 after a frustrating experience trying to obtain a mortgage in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The online lending marketplace launched in 1998 and went public on the Nasdaq two years later under the ticker symbol “TREE.”

Under his leadership, LendingTree grew into one of the largest financial comparison platforms in the United States, partnering with more than 500 lenders and serving over 15 million active customers nationwide. The company expanded its offerings beyond mortgages to include credit cards, insurance, auto loans, and small-business financing.

Doug Lebda Lending Tree CEO killed in ‘freak’ ATV accident as North Carolina company remembers financial visionary.

The Charlotte-based company’s board of directors issued a statement praising Lebda’s lasting impact on the financial industry:

“Doug was a visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation, and passion transformed the financial services landscape, touching the lives of millions of consumers. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward together. We extend our deepest sympathies to Doug’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Following Lebda’s passing, the board appointed Scott Peyree, the company’s president and chief operating officer, as LendingTree’s new CEO, effective immediately. Steve Ozonian, a longtime board member, was named chairman.

In addition to his role at LendingTree, Lebda was active in Charlotte’s civic and philanthropic communities. He served as co-chairman of the 2020 Republican National Convention in Charlotte and held positions on several corporate boards.

Lebda is survived by his wife, Megan, and their three daughters.