One dead after rollover, ejection in Putnam County

PUTNAM COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) — One man is dead after a rollover crash in Putnam County.

Robert Baker, 52, of Reelsville, IN, was pronounced dead at the scene of the one vehicle crash Thursday morning.

The Clay County and Putnam County Sheriff’s Offices both dispatched an erratic driver at 9:31 a.m., possibly impaired, who was traveling eastbound on U.S. 40 near the Clay and Putnam County Line. Deputies and State Police Troopers attempted to intercept the vehicle but were unable to before the crash at approximately 9:35 a.m.

The preliminary investigation has revealed that Baker was heading eastbound on U.S. 40 from County Road 800 West, veered off the south side of the roadway, then back over the median to the westbound lanes.

ISP says that seatbelts were not in use, resulting in Baker being ejected. Troopers say that alcohol may be a factor and that numerous alcoholic containers were found in the vehicle and near the wreckage. Chemical tests on Baker are pending.