An 83-year-old LaPorte County man was killed when he walked into the path of a car on U.S. 12 on Dec. 19, 2014.
The driver, who was not charged, said Richard Schmuhl was crossing the highway when he suddenly darted into the westbound lane right in front of the car, according to the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office. The accident occurred at about 6:30 a.m. when it was still dark.
Schmuhl, who was pronounced dead at the scene, was a resident at the nearby Shady Oak Trailer Park, 9801 N. U.S. 12, Michigan City.
The driver told deputies that he had seen Schmuhl standing in the passing lane of the eastbound lanes, but then Schmuhl suddenly darted into the path of the westbound car.
Alcohol and drugs have been ruled out as potential contributors, the sheriff’s office stated.
Also responding were the LaPorte County Coroner’s Office, LaPorte County EMS and Springfield Township Fire Department.