MONROE COUNTY, Ind. — Authorities are investigating a tragic wrong-way crash that claimed one life and left a Bloomington firefighter seriously injured early Saturday morning, October 25, 2025. The incident occurred along Interstate 69 north of Bloomington, near the 126.5-mile marker, according to the Indiana State Police (ISP).
Investigators say 33-year-old Johnathon Clark, of Nashville, Indiana, was driving a 2016 blue Jeep Wrangler southbound in the northbound lanes of I-69 when his vehicle collided head-on with a 2011 blue GMC Sierra pickup truck. The truck was driven by 29-year-old Solomon Dillard-Rynard, a Bloomington firefighter and Army National Guard member. The collision caused both vehicles to spin out of control and come to rest in the median. Moments later, Clark’s Jeep flipped and caught fire, filling the early morning air with thick smoke.
Responding troopers and Monroe County deputies used multiple fire extinguishers in an attempt to suppress the flames and rescue Clark from the burning vehicle. Despite their efforts, Clark was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. Dillard-Rynard suffered serious injuries and was transported to IU Health Bloomington Hospital, where he remains under medical care. Authorities have not yet released an update on his condition.
Both directions of I-69 were closed for several hours as crash reconstruction teams worked to document the scene, collect debris, and determine what caused Clark to enter the wrong side of the interstate. Investigators have not yet determined whether impairment, fatigue, or confusion contributed to the deadly error. The highway was fully reopened later in the morning after cleanup crews removed the wreckage.
Officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility is reduced and fatigue can increase the risk of wrong-way driving. They also encourage motorists to immediately report any vehicles observed traveling the wrong way to 911 to prevent further tragedies.
The crash has deeply affected the Bloomington community, where Dillard-Rynard is known for his service and dedication as both a firefighter and a member of the Army National Guard. Colleagues and residents have flooded social media with messages of support and prayers for his recovery. Meanwhile, the Indiana State Police continues its investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking and preventable tragedy.