Indianapolis, IN- Early this afternoon, at approximately 2:13 p.m., Indiana State Troopers were called to a report of a vehicle striking a four year old child at the State Fair.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Madalynn Gembala, 4, of Buchanan, MI was with her mother, Megan, on the west side of the fairgrounds in an area that is used to park travel trailers and motor homes. This area is commonly used by the employees working the State Fair midway.

Robert Ingalls, 49, of Mason, MI was operating a 1994 Ford pickup truck south bound on the fairground access road. According to witness statements, Madalynn broke free from her mother and stepped into the path of the pickup, and was struck by the right front tire.

Madalynn was transported to Riley Hospital in serious condition. Troopers reported they did not observe any signs of impairment while speaking with Ingalls.  As part of the investigation, Ingalls’s was transported to Wishard Hospital for drug and alcohol testing. He was not injured.

Troopers reported that Madalynn’s parents and Ingalls are employed at the fairgrounds midway.

This is an ongoing investigation. Information gathered thus far does not indicate any traffic violation.

This unfortunate accident illustrates how quickly children can escape the watchful eye of a parent. It also serves as a reminder to be ever vigilant driving in any parking lot area.

Investigating Officer: Sergeant Mark Helms, Indiana State Police.

All subjects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.