This morning (3/5/2022), at approximately 4:35 a.m., troopers from the Lowell post responded to the report of a three-vehicle crash that occurred eastbound on I-80 at the 7.4 mile-marker. This location is 1.6 miles west of the Grant Street exit.
Preliminary investigation by troopers determined that a red 2014 Kia Forte being driven by Sophia Settle, 28, of Hammond, IN, was traveling eastbound in the left lane. The Kia rear-ended a silver 2002 Ford F-150 pickup truck, causing both vehicles to lose control and spin out. The Kia then struck a white 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The left three lanes were blocked as a result of this crash. The drivers of the Chevrolet Monte Carlo and the Ford F-150 were transported from the scene to Methodist Hospital – Northlake Campus for complaints of pain.
After refusing medical treatment on scene and a certified chemical test for intoxication, Ms. Settle was transported to the Lake County Jail. Ms. Settle is preliminarily charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Troopers on-scene were assisted by Double T Towing, Gary Fire Department and Gary EMS.
All subjects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
