Jackson County: This evening at approximately 6:30 a van and semi crash resulted multiple injured persons. According to Trooper Matt Holley, a 2008 Dodge Caravan driven by 61 year old Becky Freimiller Warrick County, Indiana (city/town unknown at this time) was southbound on I-65 near the 47 mile marker when a large tire came across the median and struck the windshield of the van. Freimiller lost control of the van which then entered the median and struck the barrier cable then launched over the cable into the northbound lanes. A 2011 Freightliner semi tractor-trailer rig driven by 36 year old Anthony Green of Woodruff, South Carolina sideswiped the van causing heavy front end damage to the van.
Freimiller suffered from severe cuts and trauma to the face and a possible concussion. Green was uninjured.
Passengers in van and injuries:
Frances Wilkey, age 64 of Warrick County-Flown to University Hospital in Louisville with life-threatening injuries. Wilkey was trapped in the van for nearly 30 minutes before emergency crews could extricate her.
Donna Evans, age 53 of Warrick County-cuts and bruises
Tina Whitaker, age 50 of Warrick County-cuts and bruises
Laura Wilkey, age 43 of Warrick County-possible broken bones
Miranda Garrett, age 14 of Warrick County-cuts and bruises
Jessica Evans, age 19 of Warrick County-serious head trauma
Troopers and sheriff’s deputies searched the area for the vehicle which lost the tire. They believe it came from a trailer of a large vehicle. Anyone with information regarding the “mystery” vehicle should contact the Indiana State Police, Versailles District at 812-689-5000. The crash remains under investigation. Assisting Tpr. Holley were other troopers, Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputies, Vernon Township Fire Department, Jackson County EMS, and Lifeline Medical Helicopter.
