3 juveniles dead, 1 critical after I-65 crash; driver charged

LAKE COUNTY, Ind. — Three juveniles are dead and another is in critical condition after a crash on I-65 early Friday morning where the driver allegedly fell asleep. Indiana State Police and other authorities were dispatched to reports of a serious crash on I-65 southbound near mile marker 257, which is near the Ridge Road exit, at around midnight. Police located a Ford Explorer with extensive damage on its right side and a semi-truck. The semi-truck was parked on the shoulder at the time due to a mechanical issue, according to police. Police believe the driver, Renee Foster, 31, of Gary, fell asleep while driving and rear-ended the semi-truck. She was transported to Franciscan Hospital in Crown Point with upper body injuries, where she remains. Three juveniles, whose ages are not available, died as a result of the crash. Police allege none of them were properly restrained and one was ejected. A fourth juvenile, was allegedly not properly restrained and was flown to the University of Chicago Medical Center in critical condition. Alcohol is believed to be a factor and OWI charges will be considered once Foster's blood draw comes back, according to Indiana State Police. Foster was charged with four count of neglect of a dependent, reckless driving, driving with a suspended vehicle registration and four infractions of child restraint violations. This story will be updated.