Marshall County Police Officer Ryan Hollopeter investigated a crash on US 6 and Miami Road Monday morning just after 4 that was caused by a distracted driver using a cell phone ap.
22 year old Edwin Ceniceros Lopez of Elkhart was traveling east bound on U.S. 6 near intersection with Miami Highway in a 2013 Dodge Avenger while 55 year old Rodney Keeling of Plymouth was west bound on U.S. 6 in a 2012 Kenworth Semi Tractor pulling a tanker style trailer.
According to statements from both drivers and evidence collected at the scene, Ceniceros Lopez crossed the center of the roadway and collided head on in the west bound lane of U.S. 6.
Ceniceros Lopez admitted to using the smart phone application, “Facetime” while driving on U.S. 6. It is believed that said phone usage caused the driving distraction.
Ceniceros Lopez was transported by Tri-County EMS to Memorial Hospital for multiple fractures and dislocations. Keeling was transported to Bremen Community Hospital for possible injuries.
The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind readers to not use their cell/smart phones while driving. Unfortunately this collision is an example of what can happen.
Listeners and readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. They are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.
