ISP Trooper In Serious Condition After He Was Struck On I-865 Eastbound

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — An Indiana State Trooper is recovering from serious injuries after he was struck outside his vehicle during a traffic stop Wednesday morning on I-865 in Zionsville, Indiana State Police report. Police said five-year Indiana State Police veteran Ronneal Williams pulled over a van for a traffic violation at mile marker 4 on I-865 eastbound, and was on the right shoulder, standing on the passenger side when the collision took place. A 2011 Ford Fusion, driven by 19-year-old Ramon Michel Jr. of Indianapolis, hit the back of Trooper William's police car, sending the police car into the back of the van, which hit Trooper Williams.

Police say the impact sent the trooper into the air, and he flew over a guardrail. He and the other two drivers were transported to St. Vincent's hospital by Zionsville and Whitestown Fire Department emergency crews, where Trooper Williams is currently in serious but stable condition. Several other departments also responded to the scene.

ISP reports it's not known at the time how severe the injuries of the other drivers are, but it's believed they aren't life-threatening. (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Indianapolis Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts and LIKE Indianapolis Patch on Facebook).

According to ISP, investigators are working to find out what caused the ford to drive onto the shoulder before hitting the trooper's car.

Police ask anyone who may have been a witness before or during the crash to call ISP at 317-899-8577.

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ISP is reminding drivers to be use common sense when driving near an emergency vehicle, as Sergeant and public information officer Tony Slocum tweeted, "Slow down and move over if an emergency vehicle is on the roadside with emergency lights on. It's common sense, but is also the law. #Bsmart."

Officers are also asking everyone to be safe and smart during the upcoming busy travel weekend and after Labor Day.

(Photos via Indiana State Police)