Lake County, Indiana – A routine tire change along I-80/94 eastbound took a terrifying turn on Tuesday morning, resulting in a 15-year-old male being struck by a dislodged wheel.
According to Indiana State Police the incident unfolded around 10:30 a.m. when a passenger vehicle pulled over to the interstate’s right shoulder due to a flat tire. Simultaneously, a semi-truck operated by PDQ Trucking LLC reportedly faced mechanical issues, causing a wheel from the trailer to detach and collide with the south barrier.
Tragically, the wheel, still attached to the rim, continued its path and struck the teen who was aiding in the tire change. The victim suffered potentially life-threatening injuries, prompting immediate hospitalization and later transfer to a Chicago medical facility. Four other individuals outside the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
While standard toxicology tests are pending, initial findings suggest that drugs or alcohol were not contributing factors in the incident.
The semi-truck involved has been impounded for further inspection. This shocking incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of roadside situations and the importance of caution.
