News Summary

A tragic four-vehicle crash occurred in Kankakee Township, involving two minibuses carrying the New Prairie High School baseball team and a commercial vehicle. The driver, Shawn Wesly Russell Akison, fled from police before crashing into the buses, resulting in injuries to multiple players and coaches. One athlete, Lucas Bradshaw, was airlifted for care, and another coach has severe injuries. The community is rallying to support those affected during this difficult time.

Shocking Crash Involving New Prairie High School Baseball Team in Kankakee Township

In a startling turn of events this past Monday, a 41-year-old man named Shawn Wesly Russell Akison from Romeoville, Illinois, was arrested following a devastating four-vehicle crash that unfolded around 3:15 p.m. CT at the intersection of U.S. 20 and Fail Road in Kankakee Township, which is just north of LaPorte County, Indiana. This heart-wrenching incident involved a commercial motor vehicle driven by Akison and two minibuses carrying the New Prairie High School baseball team.

How It All Went Down

Reports indicate that Akison was behind the wheel of a single-axe box truck, and he was apparently driving recklessly west on U.S. 20 when he crashed into the minibuses. Just before the terrible accident, the St. Joseph County Police Department had tried to pull him over at Indiana 2 and Timothy Road, but Akison chose to flee, leading to a police chase that was unfortunately called off near the county line due to safety concerns.

By 3:13 p.m., a LaPorte County officer was dispatched to investigate reports of dangerous driving in the area, followed closely by the crash report that hit officers just three minutes later. Akison now faces serious charges of criminal recklessness, classified as a Level 5 felony.

Injuries and Aftermath

The crash had heartbreaking consequences for the New Prairie High School community. Two coaches and seven junior varsity athletes sustained injuries in the collision. They were en route to play against Hobart High School when disaster struck. Sadly, many of the games scheduled for May 9, 10, and 12 have now been canceled as the school grapples with the fallout.

Among the injured, one student-athlete, Lucas Bradshaw, had to be airlifted to a regional hospital to receive specialized care, as he faces a challenging recovery ahead. Meanwhile, the volunteer junior varsity baseball coach, Rich Shail, is currently hospitalized with severe injuries that include a fractured vertebrae and broken ribs. Both Shail and Bradshaw were on the same bus, which tragically pushed forward into the bus in front during the crash.

Other injured athletes were treated for a range of injuries, including broken bones requiring braces and stitches, but many have thankfully been released after receiving care. It’s a tough time for these young athletes and their coaches as they navigate their way through physical and emotional recovery.

The Road Ahead

As investigations continue, the LaPorte County Police have confirmed that they are still piecing together the details of what led to the reckless driving and crash. Community members who may have witnessed the event or have dash cam footage are being urged to reach out to Captain Andy Hynek at the LaPorte County Sheriff’s office in order to assist with the ongoing investigation.

While the details of the crash unfold, thoughts and prayers are extended from the sheriff’s office to all those affected by this tragic event. Updates are being provided to both the community and school administration as everyone comes to grips with this unfortunate situation.

As for the varsity team, their game against Hanover Central High School is still scheduled to proceed, allowing some sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. In challenging times like these, it’s clear that community spirit will play a crucial role in helping those impacted begin to heal.

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