Tragedy struck Kokomo late Wednesday night when a collision involving a police officer's vehicle resulted in the loss of a life. Indiana State Police are currently investigating the incident, which occurred near the junction of SR 931 and Vaile Avenue. An officer with the Kokomo Police Department was involved in the fatal crash while on duty, heading northbound on SR 931, according to FOX59.
A 2010 Ford, driven by a man suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, crossed into the path of the police vehicle, leading to the collision. The Ford's passenger, 55-year-old Vicky Hollingsworth of Kokomo, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Howard County Coroner’s Office. A statement obtained by WTHR from Indiana State Police indicated that probable cause was developed to believe the Ford's driver was under the influence.
The driver of the Ford, 32-year-old Timmothy A. Bergesen from Kokomo, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an Indianapolis hospital. Master Trooper Todd Trottier, involved in the preliminary investigation, revealed that Officer Jeremiah Wilson of the Kokomo Police Department made an attempt to avoid the crash, as WBIW reports. Wilson's patrol vehicle struck the Ford on its passenger side. Officer Wilson reportedly suffered minor injuries, was treated at a local hospital, and released.
While the investigation by the Indiana State Police continues, the full report will be given to the Howard County Prosecutor's Office for review upon its conclusion.
