Off-Duty Lake County Correctional Officer Killed in Early-Morning Crash; Suspect in Custody
Schererville — A tragic crash early Saturday morning at U.S. Route 30 and Austin Avenue in Schererville has claimed the life of a Lake County Correctional Officer, according to Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.
Schererville Police were first called to the scene around 4:00 a.m. for reports of a serious two-vehicle collision. One individual suffered significant injuries and was airlifted to a Chicago hospital for emergency treatment. The South Lake County Crash Reconstruction Team was also called to assist in the investigation.
Hours later, Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. confirmed that the injured victim—later identified as Correctional Officer Ronald T. Jones, 58—had died from his injuries. Officer Jones was off duty at the time of the crash.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Jones’ vehicle was struck by another driver who fled the scene on foot immediately after the collision. A multi-agency search ensued through the early morning hours.
By late Saturday evening, Schererville Police confirmed that the suspect involved in the fatal hit-and-run was taken into custody. The department stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with formal charges pending review and acceptance by the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office.
Sheriff Martinez expressed deep sorrow over the loss, saying,
“Our hearts go out to Officer Jones’ family, friends, and colleagues, and to everyone whose lives were touched by this dedicated public servant. We ask the community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Officer Jones had served with the Lake County Jail for nearly nine years and was remembered by his coworkers as a kind and professional individual who took great pride in his work. He leaves behind two adult children.
Authorities have not yet released additional details about the suspect or the circumstances leading up to the crash. Police continue to urge the public to respect the family’s privacy as the investigation proceeds.
