KENTLAND CRASH-

 

NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (February 4, 2021 10:50 am)

 

ONE FLOWN TO BURN CENTER

 

On Wednesday, February 3, 2021 10:38am the Newton County 9-1-1 center received multiple reports of a two vehicle crash on US 41 at CR 1700S (1 mile south of Kentland) with one vehicle on fire.

 

The preliminary investigation by the Newton County Sheriff’s Office indicates a 2003 Audi passenger car, driven by a 19 year old Goodland man,  was disabled (unknown reason) in the passing lane of US 41.  The Audi was struck from the rear by a northbound Ford pickup truck, driven by a 50 year old Fowler, IN woman.

 

The crash resulted in an immediate fire.  The driver of the Ford along with good Samaritans pulled the 19 year old from the fire.  He was flown by helicopter to an Indianapolis burn center.  His status is unknown at this time.

 

The names of the drivers are not being released at this time as this is an active investigation.

 

Northbound US 41 was closed for about an hour until one lane could be opened.

 

Anyone that witnessed the crash is encouraged to contact Sgt. Wilson 219-474-6081 ext 3110.

 

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Newton County 9-1-1 center, Newton County EMS, Kentland Fire, Benton County EMS, Indiana State Police and STAT FLIGHT.

 

**UPDATE**

2-9-21 8:20am

Driver’s identified.

The driver of the stalled vehicle has been identified to be Nolan Ganz, 19 of Goodland, IN.  The Marion County Coroner’s office advised Ganz has died of his injuries.

The driver of the pickup was Kristie Johnson, 50, of Fowler, Indiana.

The case remains an active investigation.