Sullivan County – February 7, 2019, at approximately 9:02 a.m., officers from the Indiana State Police and Sullivan County Sheriff’s departments responded to a single-vehicle crash on County Road 300 North just west of County Road 300 West, which injured one individual.
Preliminary investigation by Master Trooper Tom Hanks revealed Jonathan Russell, 21, of Sullivan, IN, was driving a 1992 Toyota pickup, westbound on County Road 300 North, when his vehicle left the roadway due to heavy rainfall in the area. Russell’s vehicle ran off the roadway striking a telephone pole. As a result of not wearing a seatbelt, Russell struck the steering wheel of his vehicle upon impact, and received minor injuries.
Russell was evaluated at the scene by SCAT 1 of Sullivan County, for any major medical issues, however he refused immediate medical attention at the scene. Russell was then transported to the Sullivan County Community Hospital, by a private citizen, due to the minor injuries.
Master Trooper Hanks stated, “The accident would have only been a property damage accident if Mr. Russell would have been wearing a seat belt.” Russell received a citation for failure to wear a seat belt.
The Indiana State Police wants to remind all drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts, and that the seat belt is designed to secure the occupants of vehicles against harmful movements that may result from a collision or a sudden stop. “BUCKLE UP.”
Master Trooper Hanks was assisted at the crash scene by Master Trooper Polly Blackburn, Sullivan County Deputy Ron Elliott, Sullivan City Fire Department, SCAT1 of Sullivan County and Winn Energy.
