Tragic Columbia City Crash Claims Two Lives, Leaves Four Injured
COLUMBIA CITY, IN — The Indiana State Police (ISP) have confirmed that two people were killed and four others injured in a devastating two-vehicle crash that occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 29, in Columbia City.
The collision happened at approximately 2:40 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 9 (SR 9) and County Road 500 North (CR 500 N) — a rural yet heavily traveled section of roadway in Whitley County.
According to a statement released by ISP on Wednesday, a passenger car carrying six individuals was traveling southbound on SR 9 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed the center line and veered into the northbound lane, directly into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
The car collided head-on with a black pickup truck towing a trailer, driven by a 51-year-old Columbia City man, who sustained injuries but survived the impact.
Two Lives Lost
Tragically, the driver of the passenger car, 17-year-old Helmin Ruiz of Huntington, and one of the passengers, 40-year-old Trinidad Vasquez of Fort Wayne, were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. Authorities confirmed that next of kin for both victims have been notified, and grief counselors are being made available to support their families and the broader community.
Four Others Hospitalized
The four remaining passengers in the vehicle were quickly transported to nearby hospitals by emergency responders. Their injuries range from minor to severe, according to ISP, and they continue to receive treatment and evaluation. Their names have not been released to the public at this time due to privacy concerns and the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.
The driver of the pickup truck was also injured in the crash but is expected to recover. There has been no indication of fault or impairment at this time.
Community in Mourning
The sudden loss of Helmin Ruiz, a high school student from Huntington, and Trinidad Vasquez, a Fort Wayne resident and father, has left a deep void in their families and communities. Friends, classmates, and relatives are mourning the tragedy and remembering their loved ones for their warm personalities and strong work ethic.
“Helmin was a bright young man with so much promise. He loved his family and had dreams of becoming an engineer,” said a family friend. “Our hearts are shattered.”
Trinidad Vasquez, described as a devoted family man, was remembered for his strength and compassion. “He worked hard to support his family and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need,” said one colleague.
Ongoing Investigation
State Road 9 was closed for several hours on Tuesday as investigators from the ISP’s Crash Reconstruction Team, alongside local emergency agencies, processed the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led the vehicle to cross into oncoming traffic, including examining road conditions, vehicle status, and potential distractions or health-related factors.
ISP is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or the moments leading up to it to come forward with information that may aid the investigation.
A Call for Safety and Vigilance
The crash serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and attentiveness while driving, particularly on rural highways where speeds are higher and visibility can be limited. The Indiana State Police and local officials are encouraging drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, especially when transporting multiple passengers.
As Columbia City and surrounding communities grapple with the emotional aftermath of this tragic event, vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the lives lost and to support the families of the victims.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of those involved,” said ISP in their statement. “We will continue to work diligently to uncover the cause of this heartbreaking crash.”
Funeral arrangements for Helmin Ruiz and Trinidad Vasquez are expected to be announced in the coming days. Grief counseling services are being made available through local schools and churches.
