Man Dies After Pursuit and Crash in LaPorte County
LaPORTE COUNTY, Ind. (WSBT) — A man wanted by police died when the silver pickup truck he was driving crashed into a tree during a pursuit.
Police say the vehicle, driven by 44-year-old Robert F. Bartels, was observed near County Road 150 North and County Road 500 West at approximately 4 p.m. on Wednesday.
When officers arrived, they attempted a traffic stop. However, the vehicle failed to stop, and a pursuit commenced, according to law enforcement officials.
While attempting to evade officers, the pickup truck, traveling on County Road 250 North, veered off the roadway and collided with a tree. Bartels was pronounced dead at the scene. Police indicated that he had to be extricated from the vehicle.
Authorities are awaiting toxicology reports. Bartels was wanted on a misdemeanor charge of leaving the scene.
The crash is currently under investigation.
