Arrest made after fatal crash involving motorcycle at Main and Jefferson

 

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- Charges have been filed in a crash that killed a motorcyclist Thursday evening in Mishawaka.

Eric Wruble, 33, has been charged with causing death when operating a vehicle while intoxicated

The crash happened just before 10 p.m. at Main Street and Jefferson Boulevard in Mishawaka.

Investigators say Wruble was traveling northbound on Main Street, attempting a left turn at Jefferson Boulevard, when he turned in front of a motorcycle traveling southbound.

The driver of the motorcycle, 52-year-old Steven L. Miller, was seriously injured and taken to the hospital. He was later pronounced deceased.

Witnesses told police Wruble had a green light, but the motorcyclist also had a green light - and the right of way, at the time of the crash.

Mishawaka Police spoke with Wruble at the scene, who admitted to having a "couple beers," according to the probable cause affidavit.

Officers said his speech was slurred and his balance was unsteady, reports said.

Wruble refused a certified chemical test. Officers obtained a search warrant and his blood was drawn.

Toxicology results are pending.

Wruble's bond was set at $100,000 surety or $10,000 cash. His initial hearing is scheduled for Monday.

UPDATE: Wruble was sentenced to six years in prison for causing death when operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated in January 2021.