23 Injured After Theme Park

Elkhart County, Indiana — A chain-reaction crash involving two semis and two cars shut down U.S. 20 on Wednesday morning, injuring two drivers and drawing a large-scale emergency response. The highway has since reopened, but the incident underscores the dangers of multi-vehicle accidents.

The collision occurred around 8 a.m. in the eastbound lanes between County Roads 7 and 9, near the U.S. 33 exit. Authorities said a semi approaching slowed construction traffic reported brake failure, striking a car that was pushed into a jeep. The truck then veered off the road, swerved back, and collided with another semi.

The impact scattered debris and spilled fuel across the roadway, forcing hours-long closures while HazMat teams contained hazards before cleanup.

Officials confirmed that the car and jeep drivers sustained head and neck injuries but were protected by seat belts. The semi drivers escaped serious harm.

The Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department is investigating. While brake failure is the suspected cause, officials are reviewing road conditions and construction-related traffic patterns. They noted the importance of regular maintenance, particularly for heavy trucks at highway speeds.

Experts warn that chain-reaction crashes can escalate quickly when traffic slows, visibility drops, or drivers follow too closely. Once one impact occurs, others often have little chance to avoid collisions, creating pileups with significant risks.

First responders face major challenges in such situations, from fuel fires to trapped passengers. Authorities stress that drivers can help prevent tragedies by slowing in work zones, maintaining vehicles, and avoiding distractions.