LAPORTE COUNTY, Ind. — An arrest has been made following a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on April 12 at approximately 7:00 p.m. at the intersection of Franklin Street and Westwind Drive, according to the LaPorte County E-911 Regional Dispatch Center.
Officers from Uniform Patrol Shift 2 and the Traffic Division responded to the scene, where they found a motorcyclist suffering from life-threatening injuries. The rider, identified as 23-year-old Matthew Castellanos of La Crosse, Indiana, was transported by LaPorte County EMS to Franciscan Health Hospital in Michigan City, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Preliminary Investigation
Investigators determined that Castellanos was traveling southbound on Franklin Street near Westwind Drive when a van, driven by 45-year-old Keith Starnes of Michigan City, attempted a left turn westbound onto Westwind Drive. Authorities say the van turned in front of the motorcycle, resulting in a collision between the front of the motorcycle and the right side of the van.
Officials also confirmed that Castellanos was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Starnes was transported to Northwest Health Hospital in LaPorte for a chemical test as required by Indiana law in serious injury or fatal crashes. Toxicology results for both drivers remain pending.
Charges Filed
Following the investigation, Starnes was arrested and charged with the following offenses:
- Reckless Homicide (Level 5 Felony)
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated – Endangerment (A-Misdemeanor)
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated – Per Se (C-Misdemeanor)
A probable cause affidavit was submitted to the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office, and Superior Court 1 Senior Judge Christopher Doran found probable cause to proceed with the charges. Starnes was issued a $15,000 cash bond.
Authorities say additional charges may be filed pending the completion of the investigation.
Investigation Ongoing
The Michigan City Police Department continues to investigate the crash and is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has video evidence to come forward. Tips can be directed to lead investigator Officer Daniel Revoir at (219) 874-3221, ext. 1008, or via email at drevoir@emichigancity.com.
Officials also encouraged the public to submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers or the WeTip Hotline.
Authorities remind the public that all arrests and charges are accusations, and every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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