AVON, Ind. — A tragic crash at a busy Avon intersection claimed the life of a 64-year-old man at noon today, according to the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Department. The deadly collision occurred along U.S. 36 and has left the community shaken as investigators work to determine all the factors involved.
Authorities say multiple eyewitnesses reported that a Freightliner semi-truck pulling a trailer was traveling eastbound on U.S. 36 when it allegedly ran a red light at the intersection of County Road 525E. The semi then struck a northbound Chevrolet pickup truck that was entering the intersection. The violent impact caused extensive damage to both vehicles and created a chaotic scene during the busy midday traffic period.
The force of the crash pushed the Chevrolet pickup across the grassy median separating the eastbound and westbound lanes. The truck then collided with a Chrysler Sebring that was stopped in the westbound left-turn lane of U.S. 36. That driver was stationary at the time of impact and was caught in the chain-reaction crash that unfolded in seconds.
The driver of the Chevrolet pickup, identified as 64-year-old Terry Schultz, was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Schultz could not be saved. Authorities have not yet released information about the condition of the other drivers involved in the collision.
Crash reconstruction specialists with the sheriff’s department remain at the scene conducting a detailed investigation. Deputies are carefully examining skid marks, vehicle positions, and witness statements to determine exactly what led to the fatal crash. Officials have indicated that the investigation is ongoing and may take several hours to complete.
The intersection at U.S. 36 and County Road 525E remains partially closed as authorities continue their work. Drivers are being urged to seek alternate routes and use caution in the area. The Hendricks County Sheriff’s Department reminds motorists to obey traffic signals and remain alert at intersections to help prevent tragedies like this from happening again.
