Starke County, IN (May 29, 2026) – Four people were injured, including two who were airlifted, following a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of US-35 and SR-8 in Starke County on Thursday morning.
According to investigators, a 2024 Jeep Compass was traveling westbound on County Road 100 North and attempted to cross US-35 onto SR-8. The Jeep entered the path of a southbound 2008 Ford Taurus traveling at highway speed on US-35, resulting in a collision.
A 19-year-old female passenger from Plymouth sustained head and leg injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in South Bend. The 21-year-old female driver of the Ford Taurus was also airlifted to South Bend with a head injury.
Two additional passengers, a 19-year-old woman from Knox and a 20-year-old man from Plymouth, were taken to Northwest Health–Starke with complaints of back pain. The 27-year-old male driver of the Jeep initially declined treatment but later sought medical attention due to pain.
Investigators said it remains unknown whether seat belts were being worn by those involved. The investigation into the collision is ongoing. We are thinking of those hurt and wish them a full recovery.
Why Cross-Traffic Crashes at Rural Highways Can Lead to Serious Injuries
Intersections where local roads meet higher-speed highways can present unique risks for drivers. Vehicles attempting to cross or turn onto a major roadway must accurately judge the speed and distance of approaching traffic, often within a limited amount of time.
When a vehicle enters the path of oncoming traffic traveling at highway speeds, the resulting collision can produce substantial forces. These crashes frequently lead to serious injuries, particularly when occupants are seated on the side of the vehicle that receives the initial contact.
Following a serious intersection collision, investigators often review vehicle positions, roadway evidence, witness statements, and visibility conditions. Traffic patterns, signage, and driver actions may also be examined to determine how the crash occurred and the factors that contributed to the reported injuries.
