Police Asking For Any Witnesses In Fridays Fatal Crash
On Friday March 25th, 2022, at approximately 7:40 P.M.; members of the Porter Police Department were dispatched to a vehicle collision on US 20, between Tremont Road and the SR 49 bridge.
Upon arrival of officers from the Porter Police Department, two vehicles were found to have been involved. Based on witness statements and the preliminary crash investigation by officers at the scene, a 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer being driven by a 67-year-old Michigan City man was traveling eastbound on US 20.
A 1994 Toyota Corolla being driven by Sandra Rice-Hatch, 53, of Chicago was traveling westbound on US 20. For unknown reasons, one of the vehicles crossed the center line and struck the other. Both vehicles sustained extensive damage. US 20 was closed in both directions for over 3 hours while the crash scene was investigated.
The driver of the Chevrolet Trailblazer did not require medical attention; however, Sandra was found to have sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital where she unfortunately succumbed to her injuries.
This crash is being investigated by Porter Police Department Crash Reconstructionist, Lt. Jason Holaway. Drugs and/or alcohol are not believed to be factors at this time. The Porter Police Department expects the investigation to take several weeks.
Assisting the Porter Police Department with this incident were the following agencies: Chesterton Police Department, Burns Harbor Police Department, Beverly Shores Police Department, Indiana State Police, Indiana Department of Transportation, Town of Porter Fire Department, Porter County EMS, Porter County Coroner’s Office, and Joes Towing.
Anyone with information, or witnesses that have yet to speak with law enforcement pertaining to this incident can contact Lt. Jason Holaway at 219-926-7611 or jholaway2@townofporter.com.
Chief Todd Allen wishes to extend the sincere condolences of the Porter Police Department to the family and friends of Sandra Rice-Hatch during this very difficult time.
