ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. — Authorities have identified the man who lost his life in a tragic two-vehicle collision on Wednesday afternoon. The St. Joseph County Police Department confirmed the victim as 72-year-old Edward Dunne of South Bend, who died at the scene of the crash along Cleveland Road, just west of Swanson Drive.
The collision occurred around 1:30 p.m., prompting a large emergency response. Preliminary findings indicate that Dunne was driving eastbound on Cleveland Road when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with a westbound pickup truck. Both vehicles sustained significant damage upon impact.
When first responders arrived, they found Dunne unresponsive inside his car. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. The other driver, identified as a 51-year-old man from Mishawaka, was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. Officials said he is expected to recover.
The Fatal Crash Team (FACT) was called to investigate and reconstruct the incident. Officers closed the roadway for several hours as crews documented the scene, gathered evidence, and cleared the wreckage. Investigators are examining potential contributing factors, including vehicle speed, mechanical failure, medical issues, or driver distraction, and will also review witness statements and any available surveillance or dash camera footage.
Residents in the area described the stretch of Cleveland Road as challenging to navigate, citing frequent curves and limited visibility. Several neighbors expressed concern about speeding in the area and urged drivers to be cautious. Local authorities echoed those sentiments, reminding motorists to practice defensive driving, avoid distractions, and stay alert — particularly on two-lane roads where even small errors can have devastating consequences.
The St. Joseph County Police Department extended condolences to the family and friends of Edward Dunne, recognizing the sudden and tragic nature of the event. Officials also thanked first responders for their quick action in managing the crash scene and restoring public safety. As of Thursday morning, Cleveland Road had fully reopened, though investigators say the FACT team’s report may take several weeks to complete. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the St. Joseph County Police Department’s FACT division.
