Preliminary investigation by Trooper William Stancy revealed that a blue 2007 Honda Fit, driven by Willy C. Albert, 42, of Union, OH, was traveling northbound when a deer ran onto the roadway. A head-on collision occurred between the deer and the Honda. After striking the deer, the Honda drove into the median guardrail where it sustained additional damage before coming to a final rest in the far left lane. Moments later, a silver 2019 Infiniti QX80 was northbound in the left lane and struck the disabled Honda on the passenger side. This impact caused the Honda to spin several times back into the median. The Infiniti overturned onto its passenger side, rolled back onto its wheels and struck the guardrail head-on.
As a result of the crash between the two vehicles, a 14 year old passenger in the Honda was ejected. Trooper Stancy attempted to perform CPR on the child but she was pronounced deceased by the Lake County Coroner. Mr. Albert was transported to St. Anthony’s Hospital in Crown Point for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Infiniti, William L. Cromwell, 46, of Cincinnati, OH, refused medical treatment. Alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the crash. Criminal charges may be filed following a review of the report by the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office.
*Deceased- Sage N. Albert, 14, from Union, OH. (Notification made by Lake County Coroner’s Office)
Assisting at the scene- Lake County Coroner’s Office, Tri-Creek EMS, Area Towing
*All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court*
Photo 1- 2007 Honda Fit
Photo 2- 2019 Infiniti QX80
