Second Crash Today Sends Another To Hospital By Helicopter
For the second time today, a helicopter was called to the scene of an accident involving injuries in Northwest Indiana. This afternoon at 12:15 p.m., Master Trooper Jeff Council was dispatched to a multi-vehicle crash with reported injuries on I-94 west of the Michigan State Line, according to Sgt. Glen Fifield of the Indiana State Police. This area of interstate is posted with orange construction warning signs of a construction zone/lane closure that is underway in Michigan. Preliminary investigation by M/Trooper Council shows that three vehicles were eastbound near the 44 mile-marker. Vehicle #3, a Toyota Highlander, was at a stop in traffic for the backup going into the lane restriction. Vehicle #2, a Honda Odyssey, was slowing to a stop behind the Toyota when it was rear-ended by Vehicle #1, a Volkswagen, Fifield said. This impact caused the Honda to travel into the south ditch. The Volkswagen then rear-ended the Toyota.
The drivers have been identified as follows:
- D1: Justin L. Gibson, driving a blue 2009 VW Routan
- D2: Rebecca A. Karsten, driving a green 1999 Honda Odyssey
- D3: Nicole Cantello, driving a black 2008 Toyota Highlander
Ms. Karsten was flown to South Bend Memorial hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The other drivers refused medical treatment. The roadway was closed in both directions for a brief amount of time for landing and takeoff of the air ambulance. Mr. Gibson was cited for Driving While Suspended, Fifield stated.
Assisting at the scene was the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department, LaPorte County EMS, Springfield Twp. Fire Department, Trooper Brandon Lankford and Ace Autobody
Once again, people just don’t pay attention…….someone was probably distracted……on a phone……texting, whatever, even though there is now finally a law against it…..but, I’ve seen several people still doing it……and yes, even cops ( shame on you !! )…..Thanks RNS!……great reporting as usual.