Gary, Lake County-A South Holland man died early this Monday, February 03, 2014, morning when he crashed his car on I-80/94.
Preliminary investigation by Trooper John Holmen revealed that at approximately 1:08 a.m., this morning, a 2011 Toyota Camry, driven by David Pettiford, 33 of South Holland, Illinois was west bound in the right center lane of I-80/94 at the 12 mile marker (this is under the I-65 overpass) at a high rate of speed when he possibly hit the rear of a moving semi. The semi continued west never stopping.
When Holmen arrived Pettiford was entrapped in his vehicle and Holmen managed to get into the Camry and found Pettiford unresponsive, not breathing, and with a weak pulse. Trooper Holmen was able to provide artificial respiration until emergency medical service arrived.
Pettiford was taken to North lake Methodist Hospital in Gary where he was later pronounced dead of massive trauma. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash.
Family has been notified.
The right two lanes west bound was closed at this location until approximately 4:30 a.m., for reconstruction of the crash, removal of the injured and his vehicle, and clean-up of the roadway.
Assisting: Gary Fire Department, Gary EMS and ISP reconstructionist
-30-
**Picture is of the Toyota Camry**
All Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
