We often speak about the dangers of 18-passenger vans and tractor-trailers. In a tragic truck accident on I-64 in Shelby County this weekend, the dangers of both vehicles were highlighted.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Department reported that the accident occurred near mile marker 80 of Interstate 64 near Edinburg at approximately 3:30 am on Sunday morning. According to witnesses, the large Chevrolet van was slowing down in the right, northbound lane of I-64 in an attempt to enter the shoulder of the road. The big rig was not able to slow down or did not stop and rammed into the rear of the van, causing the van to roll over. Witnesses say that the truck was driving erratically before the accident occurred and had left its lane several times.

The Flat Rock Fire Department, Edinburgh Medical personnel, and the Indiana State Police helped with the investigation – two members of the van were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident while 16 other passengers were transported to local hospitals including Columbus Regional Hospital, Johnson County Memorial Hospital and Methodist Hospital. Some van riders had minor injuries while others were listed in critical condition. The truck driver received treatment for minor injuries.

The names of the van passengers have not been released and it is unclear why they were traveling on the Interstate. Investigator are looking into the possibility that the truck driver was asleep at the wheel or drowsy at the time of the Indiana truck accident. Both drivers are being tested for illegal substances.