HOBART, Ind. — A heartbreaking crash along Interstate 65 in Hobart has left three young passengers dead and another child critically injured after a Ford Explorer slammed into a disabled semi-truck early Friday morning, according to the Indiana State Police. The tragedy has devastated multiple families and shaken communities across northwest Indiana as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Authorities identified the victims as 9-year-old Royce Sims, 5-year-old Artavius Sims, and 19-year-old Raniah Simpson. A fourth child, 7-year-old Terrion, survived the violent crash but remains hospitalized in critical condition with severe injuries. Emergency officials said the child was airlifted to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where doctors continue working to stabilize his condition.
Investigators said the deadly collision occurred shortly after midnight on May 15 along southbound I-65, approximately one mile south of Ridge Road in Hobart. According to state police, 31-year-old Renee Foster of Gary was driving a Ford Explorer when the SUV allegedly rear-ended a disabled semi-tractor trailer parked on the shoulder of the interstate. Troopers stated the SUV struck the semi at a high rate of speed, causing catastrophic damage to the vehicle.
Emergency responders arriving at the scene discovered the devastating aftermath, with three juvenile passengers suffering fatal injuries. Authorities also confirmed that one of the victims was ejected from the SUV during the impact. Foster sustained upper-body injuries and was transported to Franciscan Health Crown Point for treatment, while the semi-truck driver was not injured in the collision.
During the investigation, Foster reportedly told troopers she had fallen asleep behind the wheel moments before the crash occurred. Indiana State Police said both Foster and the truck driver consented to blood draws, though toxicology results are still pending. Investigators have submitted several recommended charges to the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office for review, including four counts of neglect of a dependent, reckless driving, driving while suspended, and child restraint violations.
As loved ones mourn the unimaginable loss, family members are now left grieving three lives cut short while praying for Terrion’s recovery. Officials emphasized that Foster has not been formally convicted and remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Meanwhile, the fatal I-65 crash remains under active investigation as authorities continue gathering evidence and working to determine every factor that contributed to the devastating tragedy.
