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Trooper Struck While Blocking Crash on I-465; 21-Year-Old Arrested on OWI Charge

The crash marks the third time Trooper Keith Martin has been hit by an impaired driver in four years, underscoring ongoing dangers to roadside responders.

Overview

  • Indiana State Police say Trooper Keith Martin was rear-ended around 4:07 a.m. on eastbound I-465 near Allisonville Road as he blocked traffic for a jackknifed semi with emergency lights activated.
  • Martin sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, was taken to a local hospital, and has been released to recover at home.
  • Police identified the pickup driver as Juan Cuatlacuatl, 21, of Indianapolis, who was arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing injury.
  • Off-duty Fortville Police Officer Lee Carnish was assisting with traffic control; his police vehicle was damaged, and he was not injured.
  • ISP Indianapolis District Commander Lt. Josh Watson publicly urged motorists to protect first responders, and eastbound lanes temporarily closed for the investigation before reopening.