The La Porte County Sheriff's Office is investigating a fatal crash that occurred Saturday afternoon at the intersection of U.S. 421 and School Drive in Wanatah. Deputies say a collision around 4 p.m. July 11 involved a passenger vehicle and two motorcycles, resulting in multiple people being ejected and at least one death.
Crash details and injuries
According to the sheriff's office, a 2005 Mazda struck a 2021 Harley-Davidson and a 2006 Harley-Davidson from behind. Each motorcycle was carrying two people at the time of the crash. Investigators report that all occupants on the motorcycles were ejected during the collision.
Two people who were on the 2021 Harley-Davidson were airlifted to South Bend Memorial Hospital. Additional riders were transported to the hospital for treatment. The sheriff's office later confirmed that Ryan Harrison, 42, who was operating a motorcycle at the time of the crash, died from his injuries on Sunday, July 12.
Ongoing investigation and public appeal
Investigators have not yet released a determination of what caused the Mazda to collide with the motorcycles. Toxicology results are pending, the sheriff's office said. Deputies continue to examine the scene and gather evidence.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has relevant video to contact Detective Deck at ddeck@lcso.in.gov or by phone at 219-326-7700 Ext. 2413.
- Date and time: Around 4 p.m., Saturday, July 11
- Location: Intersection of U.S. 421 and School Drive, Wanatah
- Vehicles involved: 2005 Mazda, 2021 Harley-Davidson, 2006 Harley-Davidson
- Casualties: One rider, Ryan Harrison, 42, died July 12; several others were hospitalized
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Crash date | July 11, ~4 p.m. |
| Fatality | Ryan Harrison, 42 (died July 12) |
| Vehicles | 2005 Mazda; 2021 & 2006 Harley-Davidson |
| Hospital | South Bend Memorial Hospital (airlifted patients) |
The collision underscores persistent safety risks at rural and small-town intersections, where higher speeds, limited sight lines and mixed traffic — including motorcycles and passenger cars — can increase the severity of crashes. The La Porte County Sheriff's Office has emphasized it will continue its probe and urged anyone with information to come forward.
As the investigation proceeds, local residents and motorists should expect increased activity from law enforcement in the Wanatah area and may see updates from the sheriff's office when further findings, including toxicology results or contributing factors, become available.
Investigators ask anyone who may have seen the crash to contact Detective Deck at ddeck@lcso.in.gov or 219-326-7700 Ext 2413.
This remains an active investigation; News Block will update this report as officials release more information.
