Driver of Mortuary Van Crashes
Putnam County—This afternoon at 1:05, Indiana State Police and Putnam County emergency agencies responded to a one-vehicle crash in the westbound lanes of Interstate 70 near the 35 mile marker. The crash involved a mortuary services van transporting a deceased person and the only injury was the driver.
Preliminary investigation revealed a black 2013 Dodge Caravan, driven by 49-year-old Matthew J. Fitzthum of Clinton, IN., was westbound on I-70 and traveled off the roadway into the median, ultimately striking a tree.
Fitzthum was transported to Terre Haute Regional Hospital for treatment of multiple abrasions and pain. Reportedly, he will be admitted for observation.
The deceased elderly female in transport was transferred to another mortuary services vehicle from the same Clinton, IN. mortuary services company owned by Fitzthum.
The investigation is continuing with the possibility of future charges, as alcohol appears to be a factor in this crash. ISP Region V Dispatch Center had received calls just prior to the crash, concerning the driver may be impaired or fatigued.
The crash was investigated by ISP Senior Trooper Bill Bradbury. Assisting was ISP Sergeants Cory Robinson and Jared Nicoson, Cloverdale Town Marshal’s Office, Putnam County EMS, and Cloverdale Fire/Rescue.
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
