MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – The Michigan City Police Department reported on Friday around 10:09 p.m., authorities responded to a call from a motorist who had struck a pedestrian in the 3500 block of East U.S. Highway 12.

A Long Beach Deputy Marshal was the first to arrive and locate a 57-year-old Michigan City local on the pavement and unresponsive, stated the report.

Although immediately beginning life-saving measures, LaPorte County EMS Technicians declared the victim had succumbed to his injuries, stated the Michigan City Police Department.

Investigators stated they found debris in the roadway and encountered the motorist involved in the crash on the scene.

After reviewing surveillance and interviewing a witness, it was determined that the victim had been struck by the vehicle traveling eastbound on U.S. Highway 12 while attempting to remove an animal carcass from the center of the lanes, stated the report.

The department stated that alcohol and drug testing were performed on the driver during the preliminary investigation, and determined that drugs appear to be a contributing factor in this crash.

Investigators state they continue to conduct interviews and search for video surveillance, but ask anyone with further information to contact the Michigan City tip hotline at (219) 873-1488.

Those with information can also contact investigators Captain Jeff Loniewski or Officer Brian Wright at (219) 874-3221 ext. 1008.

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