A preliminary investigation by Senior Trooper Dustin Rutledge indicates that shortly after 1:00 p.m., a 2007 Buick Lacrosse driven by Dennis Stroup, age 85, of Marion, IN, was traveling northbound on State Road 15 approaching County Road 700 South in Wabash, IN. For an undetermined reason, the Buick turned into the direct path of a 2014 Ford F150 driven by Larry Walker, age 76, of La Fontaine, IN. Both vehicles collided and came to a rest on the southwest quadrant of the intersection. Also in the Ford was a passenger, Sharon Walker, age 72, of La Fontaine, IN.
As a result of the crash, Mr. Stroup was transported by Wabash Fire to a local hospital. Despite life-saving measures, Mr. Stroup succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased by medical staff. Mr. and Mrs. Walker were also transported by Wabash Fire to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
This investigation is ongoing. At this time, neither the consumption of alcoholic beverages nor narcotics are suspected of contributing to this crash. Notification to the family of the deceased has been made.
Senior Trooper Dustin Rutledge was assisted by other members of the Indiana State Police Peru District, Wabash County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana DNR Law Enforcement, Wabash Fire Department, Liberty Volunteer Fire Department, and Wabash County EMA.