Porter County- On Saturday, January 18th , Trooper Ketring responded to a single vehicle crash on I-94 at the eastbound scale house which is located east of the Chesterton exit. A black, 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe had driven through the entrance to the scale house at a high rate of speed. The Chevrolet struck the metal entrance gate, then continued through the scale lanes colliding with several street signs and light poles. The vehicle came to a rest on the bypass lane of the scale house against the metal guard rail. Debris from the crash shattered the windows to the scale house.
During the crash investigation, it was determined that the driver of the Chevrolet had consumed alcoholic beverages and an O.W.I. investigation was then conducted. It was also learned that the driver was attempting to drive home; however, she was headed eastbound on I-94 rather than westbound towards Illinois. The driver was offered the opportunity to take a certified chemical test, but the driver's interactions resulted in her being charged with O.W.I. refusal. The driver, Lopez, Monserrath, 28, from Chicago, IL, was incarcerated at the Porter County Jail.
Damage to the light poles, signs, and scale house is estimated at several thousand dollars. All suspects are presumed to be innocent until/unless proven guilty in court. Charges listed are initial, final charges to be determined by the Porter County Prosecutor.
