ANDERSON, Ind. — A Westfield man was killed in a crash on Interstate 69 near Anderson Monday afternoon.
The crash happened on I-69 southbound near the 227 mile marker in Madison County. As a result of the crash, both southbound lanes and the left northbound lane of I-69 were closed.
Based on the preliminary investigation, officials believe that a white 2009 Toyota Avalon, driven by 48-year-old Beau White of Kokomo, was traveling northbound in the left lane of I-69 when the vehicle left the roadway and traveled into the median of I-69.
Officials say it appears that once in the median, the vehicle went through the dividing cable barrier and traveled into the southbound left lane. White's vehicle went into the path of a white 2021 Jeep Gladiator driven by 50-year-old Lee Arthur Ken Ingles of Westfield.
Both vehicles collided, nearly head on, according to officials.
Ingles' vehicle veered to the right, traveled off of the roadway into the west ditch, where it caught fire.
On scene, Trooper Michael Garcia observed fire coming from the engine compartment of the Jeep Gladiator and quickly rushed to the burning vehicle as bystanders pulled Ingles from the vehicle.
Unfortunately, Ingles was later pronounced dead by the Madison County Coroner.
Cowan Community Schools confirmed Ingles was a teacher and coach and released the following statement to 13News:
"Cowan Community Schools is heartbroken with the tragic passing of beloved teacher, coach, mentor, and friend Mr. Ingles. He was an extremely popular teacher that had an amazing impact on the lives of countless students in our small community. The entire Cowan Community grieves with his family during this difficult time. We are working together to support our entire school community at this time."
White was transported from the scene to St. Vincent Hospital in Anderson. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
The southbound lane closure lasted for several hours and all lanes reopened shortly after 7 p.m.
Traffic was diverted off of I-69 at the Daleville exit (Exit 234).
Indiana State Police continue to investigate and are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the crash to please come forward.
Citizens with information that may be helpful to the investigation are asked to call the Indiana State Police Pendleton Post at 1-800-527-4752. Calls are to be directed to Detective Mark Hanna. Statements can also be made in person at the Pendleton Post, located at 10922 S. S.R. 67.