Authorities in Randolph County are investigating a fatal crash that claimed the life of 78-year-old Rosemarie Cowen Hartlage of Lynn on Wednesday. The collision, which involved a Buick and a semi-tractor-trailer, temporarily closed a portion of US 36 as emergency responders worked at the scene. The community is mourning the sudden loss while authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, all lanes of US 36 were closed at Arba Pike in Greensfork Township following reports of a serious collision. Emergency crews responded immediately after dispatchers received calls about the crash, which involved a passenger vehicle and a semi-tractor-trailer. Officials confirmed that at least one person had suffered fatal injuries.
Investigators with the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office reported that Hartlage was driving a Buick southbound on Arba Pike. After stopping at the intersection with US 36, her vehicle pulled into the path of a semi-tractor-trailer driven by a 32-year-old man from Greenville. The semi struck the passenger side of Hartlage’s vehicle, causing critical injuries that ultimately proved fatal.
Emergency personnel arrived quickly at the scene to provide aid, but Hartlage was pronounced dead at the location by the Randolph County Coroner’s Office. Due to the severity of the crash and the involvement of a commercial vehicle, the Indiana State Police was contacted to conduct a crash reconstruction. Their work will help determine the exact sequence of events leading to the collision.
The crash caused significant traffic disruptions along US 36, with all lanes closed for several hours. Crews worked to remove the wreckage and restore normal traffic flow. By 1:28 p.m., authorities reported that the roadway had reopened, though officials reminded drivers to exercise caution near crash sites and follow directions from first responders to ensure safety.
The investigation into Hartlage’s death remains active. Indiana State Police and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office continue reviewing evidence, witness statements, and other details from the scene to understand how the crash occurred. Officials have stated that more information will be released as it becomes available. The tragic loss serves as a reminder of the importance of roadway safety and cautious driving at intersections, particularly when large commercial vehicles are involved.
