Head-on I-70 crash leaves 2 men dead

Monday, December 10, 2012

CLOVERDALE -- Two motorists died Sunday following a head-on crash on Interstate 70, approximately one mile east of Cloverdale.

Michael J. Sullivan, 42, Franklin, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other driver, 82-year-old Willie T. Simmons, of Sullivan, died later at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

Simmons' son Keith, 61, also of Sullivan, was also transported to Methodist Hospital for treatment of his injuries. His status was not available as of Sunday evening.

At 9:49 a.m., Putnam County 911 Dispatch received several calls reporting a head-on collision on eastbound I-70 just west of the 42-mile marker.

Upon arrival, Putnam County Sheriff's deputies found a 2004 Mazda Tribute resting on its driver's side in the passing lane and a 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo against the guardrail on the south shoulder of the road.

Investigating officer Deputy Adam Hull said tire marks indicated Sullivan's Mazda had been traveling westbound when, for unknown reasons, he drove off the travel portion of the road and across the median.

Once in the eastbound lanes, Sullivan's SUV was struck on the driver's side by Simmons' Chevrolet, causing the Mazda to roll onto its side.

Putnam County Coroner Thomas Miller pronounced Sullivan dead at the scene.

Willie and Keith Simmons were trapped in their vehicle and had to be extricated by personnel from the Cloverdale Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Following extrication, Putnam County Operation Life transported both men to Methodist Hospital. Both were suffering from hip and lower leg injuries.

At 5:15 p.m. the Marion County Coroner's Office advised Hull that Willie Simmons had died.

Eastbound I-70 traffic was shut down for approximately 45 minutes while extrication took place.

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: