Authorities in northern Indiana are investigating a deadly multi-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a 26-year-old driver late Thursday night near Plymouth. Officials confirmed that the collision occurred along a busy stretch of U.S. Highway 30 and involved several trucks, leaving one person dead and multiple others injured. The incident has caused deep concern in the community and prompted an extensive overnight investigation by local law enforcement.
The victim, identified by the coroner’s office as Thomas Diener of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, was traveling through the area when the crash occurred sometime after 9:30 p.m. According to preliminary information, Diener had pulled his pickup truck onto the shoulder of the highway and stopped behind a disabled vehicle and a tow truck assisting it. Investigators say all three vehicles were stationary when a semi-truck traveling westbound on U.S. 30 struck them from behind, triggering a violent and catastrophic impact.
Emergency crews responded quickly, but the force of the collision left Diener with fatal injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities reported that he had been ejected from his vehicle during the crash. Attempts to revive him were not successful due to the severity of the trauma. The sudden loss has left many shaken, particularly those who witnessed the aftermath or were involved in the emergency response.
Several others were injured in the incident, including two passengers who had been standing near the disabled truck and the driver of the tow truck assisting at the scene. All three were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials have not released details about their injuries or current condition but confirmed that they survived the initial impact. Medical updates are expected as their conditions are assessed by hospital staff.
Investigators worked through the night to examine the scene, document vehicle positions, and gather witness statements. Portions of U.S. 30 were shut down for hours as debris was cleared and detectives collected physical evidence. Authorities have not commented on whether speed, visibility, or road conditions contributed to the crash, noting that nighttime driving and the presence of large trucks often increase risk. They emphasized that conclusions will not be drawn until the full investigation is complete.
The identity of the semi-truck driver has not yet been released, and officials say it is too early to determine whether citations or charges will be filed. As investigators continue piecing together the timeline of events, community members have expressed condolences to Diener’s family, mourning a life lost in a tragic and preventable moment on the roadway.
