Pedestrian killed in accident on US12

The LaPorte County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of a pedestrian who was struck by a car in the 9800 block of US Highway 12 in Springfield Township around 6:45 a.m. Friday.

According to investigators, the victim was crossing US Highway 12 when he suddenly darted out in front of a car headed westbound.

The victim was struck by the car and died at the scene.

The driver told investigators he had seen the pedestrian in the passing lane of the eastbound lanes, and as the vehicle approached, the victim darted into the vehicle's path.

The pedestrian was identified as 83-year-old Richard Schmuhl.

The sheriff's office says there are no street lights in the area and it was dark at the time of the collision.

The sheriff's office says alcohol and drugs have been ruled out and the driver of the vehicle was not at fault.

The investigation is ongoing.