Howard County, IN Driver Dies After Toyota Hits Pole in Kokomo

Kokomo, IN – A driver was killed early Friday after a Toyota left a Kokomo roadway, struck a utility pole and rolled, prompting an investigation by Indiana State Police.

According to Indiana State Police, Howard County Dispatch received an automated crash detection alert shortly after 2:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 2, indicating a Toyota had crashed near West Superior and Washington streets in Kokomo.

Dispatchers sent emergency crews to the area, where they located a gray 2022 Toyota that had struck a utility pole and rolled.

When Kokomo Police Department officers arrived, authorities said they recognized the Toyota as the same vehicle that had allegedly fled from an officer moments earlier.

Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene, and the Howard County Coroner's Office was notified. The coroner confirmed the driver had died. Police said the driver was the vehicle's only occupant.

Authorities did not identify the driver in the initial announcement. Indiana State Police said questions regarding the person's identity should be directed to the Howard County Coroner's Office.

A preliminary investigation indicates the Toyota left the roadway before hitting the utility pole and rolling. Investigators said speed appears to have been a contributing factor in the crash.

The Indiana State Police Critical Incident Reconstruction Team continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal wreck.

Indiana State Police were assisted by Kokomo police, the Kokomo Fire Department, Howard County Coroner and local emergency medical personnel.

Additional information is expected to be released as the investigation develops.