VIGO COUNTY, Ind. — A devastating head-on collision on State Road 46 in southeastern Vigo County claimed the lives of three people and left two others hospitalized Monday morning. The crash occurred around 8:05 a.m. near the intersection of State Road 46 and Lama Road, according to the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies, Riley Fire Rescue, and Trans-Care Ambulance crews rushed to the scene and discovered two sport utility vehicles with catastrophic front-end damage, underscoring the violent impact of the crash.
Authorities identified the victims who died as 30-year-old Sharon Rosa, 67-year-old Will Wiggington, and 58-year-old Lenard Romine. All three were pronounced dead at the scene despite immediate emergency efforts. Two passengers survived the collision but suffered injuries. An adult passenger from one SUV was transported to a nearby hospital, while a juvenile passenger from the other vehicle was also hospitalized. Officials have not yet released updates on their conditions.
The Vigo County Fatal Crash Team was deployed to investigate the deadly wreck. Preliminary findings suggest that one of the SUVs may have crossed the center line, triggering the head-on collision. Investigators are now working to determine which driver strayed from their lane and what contributing factors may have been involved. Possible causes under review include driver distraction, impairment, speed, and roadway conditions at the time of the crash.
Head-on collisions remain among the deadliest types of traffic accidents due to the sheer force of impact. Both vehicles in Monday’s incident sustained extensive front-end damage, leaving little doubt about the severity of the collision. The survival of two passengers, including a child, adds both relief and heartbreak, as families now face the dual challenge of mourning lost loved ones while hoping for recovery of the injured.
Community members have expressed grief following confirmation of the victims’ identities. Rosa, Wiggington, and Romine ranged widely in age, representing three different families now confronted with sudden and devastating loss. Local officials have pledged to keep the public informed as more details are gathered, but they emphasized patience as investigators work carefully to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash.
The Vigo County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details regarding traffic disruptions, though the roadway was likely shut down temporarily as crews cleared the scene. For now, the cause of the crash remains under investigation. Officials said the findings of the Fatal Crash Team could help prevent similar tragedies in the future. This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that can arise on the roadway in a matter of moments.