Man from Illinois detained in accident in La Porte County that harmed high school baseball squad

A man from Illinois, Shawn Wesly Russell Akison, was arrested last Thursday following a serious accident in La Porte County involving school minibuses carrying a high school baseball team, as reported by authorities. The crash at U.S. 20 and Fail Road resulted in injuries to two coaches and seven student-athletes from New Prairie High School. LaPorte County Sheriff's Office shared that one student required airlifting to a regional hospital for treatment, while others were treated on-site or taken to nearby medical facilities. The incident started when reports of a box truck driving recklessly were received by St. Joseph County authorities on State Road 2. Despite attempts to stop the vehicle near Timothy Road, the driver, Akison, did not comply, leading to a pursuit that was eventually called off near County Road 900 East. Shortly after, around 3:16 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the crash scene involving the box truck, a commercial vehicle, and two minibuses from New Prairie United School Corporation. The box truck driven by Akison struck the other vehicles while traveling westbound on U.S. 20. Akison was taken to a hospital for evaluation and later transferred to the LaPorte County Jail, where he faces a felony charge of criminal recklessness with a $15,000 cash-only bond. Authorities are urging any witnesses of the crash or individuals with dashcam footage of the box truck to get in touch with investigators. The investigation is in progress, awaiting toxicology results. School officials were promptly informed of the incident, with continuous updates provided over the weekend. Administrative Captain Derek J. Allen emphasized the need for thoughts and prayers for the injured, their families, friends, and the entire school community. Speculating on the crash circumstances is discouraged, and privacy for those affected by this tragic event should be respected.