Published: September 30, 2008 12:18 am            

Clay County man serious after head-on collision

A Clay County man was listed in serious condition in Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis on Monday after an early-morning, head-on collision just west of Brazil on U.S. 40.

Michael McConnell, 56, of Brazil, was taken to the hospital via Lifeline helicopter with two broken legs, a broken pelvis, a serious laceration on his left arm and a concussion, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Department.

McConnell was undergoing surgery late Monday afternoon, said a Methodist spokesman.

The two-vehicle accident occurred about 7:30 a.m. at U.S. 40 and Water Works Road, police said.

The driver of the other vehicle, Robert Maesch, 63, of Staunton, was treated and released at Union Hospital. Maesch had pain in his leg and chest.

Maesch told police he was traveling west on U.S. 40 when the eastbound car driven by McConnell crossed into his lane and collided with his truck. A witness verified Maesch’s account, according to police.

When police arrived, McConnell was trapped in his car and had to be removed by first responders.

The investigating officer, deputy Josh Krause, said he did not know what caused McConnell’s car to go into the westbound lane. McConnell had finished working an overnight shift at his job in Terre Haute, Krause said.

Other responding agencies included the Brazil Police Department, Brazil Fire Department, Posey Fire Department and TransCare.

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.