Shelby County - This afternoon at approximately 5:15 a multiple vehicle accident claimed the life of a Shelby County man. Emergency crews responded to U.S. Highway 52 at the intersection of County Road N. 200 E near Morristown. Upon arrival, police found a very active crash scene with bystanders performing CPR on one person, and another female driver was in very critical condition. 51 year old John Hogue was pronounced deceased at the scene. A medical helicopter was called to the scene to transport the critical patient, 30 year old Jessica Maxwell of Muncie, Indiana.
Preliminary investigation by the Indiana State Police determined a white 2015 Freightliner utility truck was eastbound on U.S. 52 approaching the intersection of 200 E. Just ahead, a Grey 2015 Chevrolet Traverse, driven by Mr. Hogue, had stopped on U.S. 52 preparing to turn north onto C.R. 200 E. The utility truck collided with the rear end of the Traverse, causing the Traverse to spin into the westbound lanes, at which time it was struck by an westbound medical transport van. Investigators believe Mr. Hogue was not wearing his seatbelt and was thrown into the back cargo area of his SUV during the collision. The white 2011 Ford van was driven by Ms. Maxwell. The vehicles came to rest in the roadway, at which time bystanders came to offer emergency aid. Two other vehicles were struck by crash debris during the collision.
The Indiana State Police was assisted by several agencies during this investigation including the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, The Fountaintown and Morristown Volunteer Fire Departments and the Shelby County Coroner's Office.
This is an ongoing investigation and there is no further information available at this time. The family of the deceased has been notified. U.S. 52 was closed in both directions for approximately 2 hours for investigation and clean up.
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