Family members, friends, and loved ones are mourning the heartbreaking loss of 48-year-old Clemie B. Chapman of La Porte, Indiana, whose life was tragically cut short in a fatal crash early Sunday morning. Her sudden passing has left many struggling to process a devastating loss that came without warning, bringing sorrow to all who knew and cared about her.
According to the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched at approximately 12:46 a.m. on May 17, 2026, to the area of US 20 and Michigan Street for a serious collision involving a passenger vehicle and a commercial motor vehicle. Authorities said the crash occurred several hundred feet west of Michigan Street in a construction zone where traffic patterns had been altered due to ongoing roadway work.
Investigators reported that Clemie Chapman was driving a gold 1995 Nissan eastbound on US 20 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed left of center. The Nissan then collided with a purple 2000 Kenworth semi-tractor/trailer combination. Officials stated that the passenger vehicle struck the rear axle of the semi-truck before continuing into the trailer, causing catastrophic damage from the impact.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and worked to assess the crash site, but despite their efforts, Clemie B. Chapman was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of her injuries. Authorities confirmed that the driver of the semi-truck, identified as 30-year-old Pawel Glista of Joliet, Illinois, was not injured in the collision. Multiple agencies responded to assist with traffic control, emergency response, and crash investigation efforts.
Officials also stated that toxicology results are pending as part of the ongoing investigation into the fatal crash. Investigators continue reviewing evidence from the scene and working to determine exactly what led to the vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic. No additional details have been released at this time as authorities continue piecing together the events leading up to the collision.
For those who knew Clemie Chapman, her passing leaves a deep and painful void. Loved ones are remembering her for the life she lived, the memories she created, and the presence she carried within her family and community. As the investigation continues, family and friends are leaning on one another for comfort and strength during this difficult time, holding tightly to the memories that will forever keep her spirit alive in their hearts.
