Martin County crash claims truck driver’s life

Martin County — A truck driver operating a semi-tractor trailer was killed in a crash on U.S. 231 Monday morning.

According to Indiana State Police, the Martin County Sheriff’s Department was called about a single-vehicle crash involving a tractor-trailer just north of the Ragelsvill Road intersection with U.S. 231.

Police determined a 2002 International semi-tractor trailer hauling lumber was being driven by Merlin J. Miller, 43 of New Paris, Ind., when for unknown reasons it crossed the center line and ran off the east side of the highway and down into a ditch stopping in the tree line.

Mr. Miller was located in the cab of the semi-tractor, however, he had succumbed to his injuries sustained in the accident. The family has been notified. 

The roadway was closed for more than seven hours for the investigation and clean up. 

Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Loogootee Police Department, Loogootee Fire Department, Martin County EMS, Martin County Civil Defense, Crane Naval Base EMS, Storks Towing out of Jasper assisted at the scene. The crash is being investigated by Trooper Andrew Beaver of the Jasper District.