Lake County, IN (February 25, 2025) – A tragic two-vehicle collision early Tuesday morning, February 25, 2025, claimed the life of off-duty Munster police officer Ryan Perez.
Accident Details: Authorities responded to the scene at 1:05 a.m. Perez’s Dodge Ram was traveling north on US 41 while a semi-truck was traveling south. The two vehicles collided near the 11400 block of Wicker Avenue in unincorporated Lake County, south of St. John. Perez was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi-truck driver was uninjured and was transported by his employer to a local hospital for mandatory Department of Transportation (DOT) testing. Investigators are examining potential contributing factors as part of the ongoing Lake County Sheriff’s Department investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Considerations: Anyone with additional information about the accident is encouraged to come forward. Collisions involving large commercial trucks and smaller passenger vehicles can be devastating. Investigators will assess several key factors to determine the cause of the crash, such as impairment, distraction, or fatigue.
Authorities may also examine the facts to determine who had the right of way and whether speed was a factor in the crash. Investigators will reconstruct the accident by looking at the toxicology reports, electronic data recorder, traffic footage, and the scene of the accident to determine what happened. Investigators may also assess whether the semi-truck had mechanical issues that could have contributed to the crash, including brake failure or tire problems.
If negligence is found to have played a role, Perez’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.
I extend my deepest condolences to Perez’s loved ones and the Munster Police Department.
Source: WGN 9