News Release

ELKHART COUNTY — The Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office has obtained updated information on the vehicle crash that took the lives of U.S. Rep. 2nd District Jackie Walorski; her two staff members, Zachery Potts, Mishawaka, and Emma Thomson, Washington, D.C.; and Edith Schmucker, Nappanee, on Wednesday, Aug. 3.

The information from the preliminary investigation at the scene, as to the direction of travel of the vehicles, was incorrect. The continuing investigation has located eyewitness and video evidence.

Both confirm the maroon Buick LeSabre driven by Edith Schmucker, 56, Nappanee, was southbound on SR 19, south of SR 119, and the silver Toyota RAV 4, driven by Zachery Potts, 27, Mishawaka, was northbound on SR 19. The Toyota RAV 4 crossed the centerline for reasons unknown at this time and the two vehicles collided.

All occupants of both vehicles were confirmed to have been wearing seat belts and air bags did deploy. The Sheriff’s Office is continuing to interview witnesses and collect evidence from the scene and vehicles.

If anyone has information or witnessed this crash, they should contact the Sheriff’s Office at (574) 891-2300.

If any new information becomes available as the investigation continues, the sheriff’s department will send updated information.