Rochester – This afternoon, at approximately 1:08 p.m., officers from the Indiana State Police, the Argos Police Department, and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department responded to a two vehicle crash on U.S. 31 at State Road 110, which injured two men.

A preliminary investigation by Trooper Rodd Schuh revealed that Michael Hurford, 23, Monterey, IN, was driving a 1997 Isuzu pickup truck eastbound on State Road 110. Hurford failed to stop for a stop sign at the intersection of U.S. 31. The Isuzu struck a southbound 2004 Kenworth semi-tractor, pulling a box trailer, in the passenger side. After impact, the Kenworth and trailer rolled onto the driver’s side. The Kenworth was driven by Ralph Brese, 71, Anthens, GA.  The box trailer was loaded with books, some of which were deposited onto the roadway.

Hurford was transported by ambulance to Woodlawn Hospital with a head injury. Brese was also transported by ambulance to Woodlawn Hospital with a complaint of back pain.

Hurford was issued a citation for failure to yield to cross traffic. The investigation revealed Hurford was not able to stop for the stop sign due to excessive speed. The road conditions were not a factor in this crash. The road surface had not deteriorated prior to the crash.

Both drivers were restrained with seat belts, which Trooper Schuh believes helped reduce the severity of their injuries. Neither the use of alcohol nor narcotics is believed to be a contributing factor in this crash.

Trooper Schuh was also assisted at the crash scene by Master Trooper Randy Shaver, the Argos Fire Department, the Rochester Fire Department, Argos EMS, and Rochester EMS.