Hobart, IN (May 16, 2026) – Three teens lost their lives, and another suffered critical injuries following a devastating overnight crash involving an SUV and a semi-truck along Interstate 65 in Hobart, according to Indiana State Police.
Authorities said the collision occurred around midnight in the southbound lanes of I-65 near mile marker 257. Preliminary reports indicate a Ford Explorer traveling in the right lane left the roadway and collided with a semi-truck that was parked on the shoulder because of mechanical issues.
Investigators said the SUV sustained catastrophic damage in the crash, while the semi-trailer also suffered major damage. Emergency responders arrived to find multiple teen passengers seriously injured inside the vehicle.
The police confirmed that three teenagers died from injuries sustained in the collision. A fourth teen passenger suffered potentially life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Chicago for emergency treatment. The driver of the SUV, identified as 31-year-old Renee Foster of Gary, Indiana, suffered upper-body injuries and was transported to a hospital in Crown Point for treatment. The driver of the semi-truck was not injured.
Indiana State Police stated that investigators are examining several possible contributing factors as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities also confirmed that charges are expected to be submitted to the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office for review. The crash caused significant disruptions along southbound I-65 as crews worked overnight to investigate and clear the scene.
Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims, and we hope for the recovery of the injured child.
Fatal Interstate Crashes Involving Children
Serious interstate crashes involving children often lead to devastating outcomes and extensive emergency responses. High-speed collisions with commercial vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries, particularly during overnight travel when visibility and driver fatigue may become concerns.
Safety officials encourage all drivers to remain alert behind the wheel, avoid fatigued driving, and ensure all passengers are properly restrained before traveling. Seat belts and child safety restraints remain among the most important protections for reducing severe injuries in crashes.
