By Trend News Line 2024-06-28 14:53:00.
Tragic Two-Vehicle Crash in LaGrange County Claims One Life
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a two-vehicle crash near 5410 South S.R. 5 in Topeka has resulted in the loss of a life. The LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department received a report of the incident on Thursday, June 27, at 5:28 a.m.
Details of the Crash
The crash involved a 2012 Dodge Caravan driven by 74-year-old James Goodwin of Syracuse, who was travelling south on S.R. 5. It is believed that Goodwin fell asleep at the wheel, causing him to cross the center line into the northbound lane.
On the other side of the road, a 2002 Pontiac Montana driven by 61-year-old Martin Macias Rodriguez of Ligonier was approaching Goodwin. Despite Rodriguez’s attempts to avoid the collision, the Dodge Caravan struck the Pontiac on the right side of the front-end.
Passenger Injuries and Fatalities
Rafael Beccerra, a 58-year-old passenger in the Pontiac, suffered multiple injuries as a result of the crash and was rushed to Parkview LaGrange Hospital. Beccerra was seated in the right rear seat of the vehicle at the time of the collision.
Another passenger in the Pontiac, 53-year-old Abel Dominguez Salazar, was seated in the right front passenger seat during the crash. Sadly, Salazar was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extricated by the Topeka Fire Department.
Despite efforts to save his life, Salazar became unresponsive at the scene and was pronounced dead. The loss of his life is deeply felt by the community and his loved ones.
Investigation and Reconstruction
The Indiana State Police have taken over the investigation and are conducting a full crash reconstruction to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the tragic incident. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation as authorities work to gather all relevant information.
As the community mourns the loss of Abel Dominguez Salazar and prays for the recovery of Rafael Beccerra, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the consequences of drowsy driving. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those involved in this tragic accident.
In Conclusion
The devastating impact of this two-vehicle crash in LaGrange County serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of staying alert and focused while behind the wheel. As the investigation continues, we hope for answers and justice for the victims and their families.
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driver falls asleep crashes into vehicle, passenger dead.