Hobart Man Accused of Fleeing Crash That Left Motorcyclist Severely Injured
HOBART — Michael Von Winkiel, 30, a Hobart man, has been charged after authorities say he fled the scene of a crash that left a motorcyclist with severe injuries, according to court documents.
According to court documents, the crash occurred on September 15, 2025, at approximately 7:45 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 51 and Division Street in Hobart. A witness reported seeing a motorcycle traveling northbound on SR 51 when a gray pickup truck, turning left onto Division Street, pulled into the path of the motorcycle. The motorcycle and pickup collided, and the rider was thrown to the roadway in a semi-conscious state. The witness reported the pickup then continued eastbound on Division Street without stopping .
Responding officers found the motorcyclist lying on his back in the roadway near the motorcycle, semi-conscious and unable to speak. He was transported by medics and later flown to the University of Chicago Medical Center for treatment .
Investigators reviewed license plate reader data which showed a silver Ford pickup truck traveling southbound on SR 51 just before the crash. The vehicle was registered to a woman with known ties to Winkiel, who lived in the 200 block of Brandt Place in Hobart. Police later located Winkiel at that residence, where he was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant .
During a recorded interview, Winkiel waived his rights and admitted that he had been driving the silver Ford pickup at the time of the crash, fled the scene, and parked the truck in his garage. He also admitted that his driver’s license was suspended. Detectives observed damage on the pickup consistent with the crash, including markings on the hood and a red smear resembling blood on the grille .
Court documents further state the vehicle carried no insurance coverage and that the motorcyclist suffered multiple severe injuries requiring reconstructive surgeries on both wrists and his pelvis .
A BMV records check confirmed Winkiel’s license was suspended at the time of the incident .
Charges filed September 18, 2025:
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death or Catastrophic Injury (F4)
• Driving While Suspended: Operation of Vehicle Results in Death or Catastrophic Injury (F5)
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Moderate or Serious Bodily Injury (F6)
• Driving While Suspended: Operation of Vehicle Results in Bodily Injury (F6)
• Driving While Suspended: Knowing Violation and Prior Conviction Within 10 Years (MA)
• Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Financial Responsibility (IFA)
Remains lodged in the Lake County Jail.
