Driver Slowing for Trooper on Traffic Stop is Rear Ended
Vigo County—At 12:03 this afternoon, Indiana State Police and Vigo County emergency agencies responded to a two-vehicle rear end collision on US 40, just west of Hunt Street that injured one driver.
Preliminary investigation revealed Master Trooper Hans Nowak was conducting a routine traffic stop in the area, when 18-year-old Michael Foster Jr. of Terre Haute, IN., driving his 2009 Mazda 4-door, began to slow down and safely pass by the trooper. In doing so, 26-year-old Richard Hazel Jr. of Terre Haute, IN., driving his 2002 Ford pickup, struck Foster’s Mazda in the rear.
Richard Hazel Jr. was not injured, but was cited for following too close. Reportedly, Hazel's attention was distracted by an animal near the roadway.
Michael Foster Jr. was transported to Terre Haute Regional Hospital for back pain. Foster was cited for not wearing his seatbelt.
The crash was investigated by ISP Master Trooper Hans Nowak. Assisting were the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office, Seelyville Fire/Rescue, and Trans Care EMS.
No pictures available.
Under the Law, criminal charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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SGT. JOE WATTS
