Driver Killed, 2 Teen Passengers Seriously Injured in Semi-Truck Crash in Lake County, Indiana, Sheriff Says

LAKE COUNTY, Ind. (WLS) — A 19-year-old driver was killed and two teenage passengers had to be airlifted to Chicago hospitals after a crash Saturday morning in northwest Indiana.

The accident occurred around 11:45 a.m. near West 181st Avenue and Harrison Street in Lake County, Indiana, Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said.

Investigators said a passenger vehicle was attempting to turn west when it collided with an eastbound tractor-trailer.

The 19-year-old driver of the car was pronounced dead at the scene, the sheriff said. Two people, ages 14 and 15, in the rear of the vehicle suffered life-threatening injuries in the accident.

The injured teens were flown to hospitals in Chicago. Her current condition was unknown.

The 67-year-old driver of the semi-truck was not injured in the accident, the sheriff said.

“While there are no words that can ease the pain of those affected by this tragedy, I truly sympathize with the family and other loved ones of those involved,” Sheriff Martinez said in a news release.

The Lake County Sheriff continues to investigate the crash.