A semi caught on fire after being hit by a train in Mentone on Wednesday, Oct. 1. Photo by Jeffrey Snapp.

Press Release

MENTONE — A semi driver was airlifted from an accident involving a train in Mentone.

Around 5 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, emergency personnel responded to a report of a semi versus train accident at SR 25 and SR 19. The semi was fully engulfed when personnel arrived on scene.

A preliminary investigation determined that the semi was westbound on SR 25 and was trying to make a left turn. From what investigators could tell, the semi appeared to have missed the turn, driving off the roadway, and disabling the vehicle on the tracks. The Norfolk Southern train was eastbound when it struck the semi.

The semi driver, identified as Lonni R. Guyton, 60, Howe, was airlifted from the scene by Samaritan helicopter to Fort Wayne for treatment of his internal injuries.

Responding agencies include the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Mentone Police Department, Mentone Fire Department, Burket Fire Department, Parkview EMS, Crouse Wrecker Service, Norfolk Southern PD, and Samaritan Air Ambulance.

The crash remains under investigation by the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office FACT Team.

A train and semi were involved in the accident. Photo provided by Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office.