Ohio Man Struck and Killed While Attempting to Push Disabled Vehicle

. Toxicology results are pending although alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be factors in the collision.

February 16, 2023, Troopers from the Indiana State Police began investigating a fatal crash that occurred on US 50 in Greendale, Indiana where a pedestrian was struck and killed while attempting to push a disabled vehicle.

The initial investigation by Trp. Sam Simpkins indicated that at approximately 7:30 pm, a 2010 Kia passenger car, driven by Lee Thomas, age 19, Cleves, Ohio was traveling westbound on US 50 near Green Comm Drive when the vehicle became disabled in the roadway.  Thomas exited the vehicle and was attempting to push the vehicle from the rear while his 15-year-old passenger was steering it from the driver’s seat.

Thomas and the vehicle were then struck from behind by a westbound 2012 Volkswagen passenger car being driven by Edward Brueggman, age 76, Lawrenceburg, Indiana.  Thomas’ vehicle was then pushed into the path of an eastbound 2010 Volkswagen, driven by Jonathan Hill, age 37, Amelia, Ohio.  Thomas’ vehicle collided with Hill’s vehicle before coming to a stop.

As a result of the collision, Lee Thomas sustained fatal injuries.  He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Dearborn County Coroner’s Office.  Brueggman and the juvenile were treated for minor injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.  Toxicology results are pending although alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be factors in the collision.

Lee Thomas’ family has been notified.

Troopers from the Indiana State Police-Versailles Post were assisted by Indiana State Police Crash Reconstructionists. The Greendale Police Department, Greendale Fire Department, and Dearborn County Coroner’s Office also assisted at the scene.