Car accident leaves one dead, two injured
Car accident leaves one dead, two injured Save Email Print
Kosciusko County
Posted: 6:58 PM Dec 4, 2007
 Last Updated: 7:17 PM Dec 4, 2007
95 comments
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An accident in western Kosciusko County left one man dead and two other people injured.

The crash happened around three on Tuesday afternoon.

Police tell us that drivers in two cars were going the same direction on old U.S. 30, just west of Atwood, near Hoffman Lake. They say the drivers of those cars did know each other.

One car successfully passed a mail truck. The second driver tried to pass too, but went off the road and then overcorrected. That is when the second car hit an oncoming truck.

The truck’s driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The two injured people were airlifted to a South Bend hospital where one is in severe and one in critical condition.
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Posted by: Josh clemons the one in the accident Location: bourbon on Jun 15, 2008 at 02:22 AM
thats to all of the prays that were all sent to me and hoffers family!when i first woke up in the hospital i wouldnt talk wouldnt really do anything was kinda scared not knowing if im going to be the same like i was be the accident!I really dont remember nothing of the accident i had serious brain injured the doc said im not going to me 100% perfect like i was before,but now i can talk clear,and walk good. to all of the people making smark comments about me i was the passenger not driven.idk how fast we were going.blake is my best friend after chase turn around to come to the accident,chase driven doind 5-10mph blake jump out of the car an got up and ran to me i was half on the seat half off. was ejecked out of the car for 200ft! im doing good somedays ill wake up and my legs will me hurting i can take the pain....just thankful im still alive...thank u GOD!!!!!!!!!!!! about ryan the drive of the jetta......i know it was an accident no hard feeling bro!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Atwood on Jan 4, 2008 at 09:18 AM
For all you people who came on here and say things that are not true and dont know whats going on put your selfs in this place and dont say none have you have ever went over the speed limit because everyone has. if you were put in this place then you wouldnt want peoples saying this stuff about you IT WAS AN ACCIDENT... thats it ya i know Ryan messed up bad but none of you know what he is going thought enless it happened to you. People in this world judge way to quick and it need to stop.
Posted by: J Location: Atwood on Dec 28, 2007 at 01:35 PM
All of you people whom are offened by this board need not check it any more. Period! If you can't take what is being posted then stop reading it. People can express what ever they feel like. You are not to say what can or can't be said.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Indianapolis on Dec 28, 2007 at 12:51 AM
You never really comprehend the death of loved ones as much as you do during holidays.I know Christmas is over, but here is my wish. My wish is that everyone would quit using this comment board to be mean and hurtful. The comments are not benefiting anyone. Instead pray for my family and all of the families involved. My grandfather was a good Christian man. He, above all people, knew that the only real judgement can come from God. Let the situation rest in his hands. Learn from it.
Posted by: Tracy Location: Goshen on Dec 27, 2007 at 11:24 AM
My heart is breaking. People are arguing every side and being as hurtful as they can be. "Shut your mouth", "Go to Hell", and calling someone an idiot are not nice things to say. It is sad to think I'm sharing my community with people like this. I pray for all families involved and for those that cannot act proper.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: IN on Dec 27, 2007 at 01:21 AM
wow i can't believe how imature everyone on this site is being... STOP! to blame this on josh when he is still in the hospital and was not driving it was an accident and if you people knew these boys maybe you would have some compassion yes i am sorry that Mr. Hoffer died and there is no excuse for people to be driving stupid but leave it up to the courts to decide what happens shut the hell up and stay out of it! it is in Gods hand now...Pray for the families involed because we all know they need it right now.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: IN on Dec 26, 2007 at 04:03 PM
Well said J from Atwood. I would add to your statement about Josh and Ryan being directly responsible but also the other idiot friends that were in the other car that were they racing be held responsible as well. It's kind of sad that their friends that WEREN'T even involved or at the scene are trying to change the story about what really happened trying to make people believe that it was just an accident. I say to those idiotic friends, GROW UP!!!!!!
Posted by: J Location: Atwood on Dec 26, 2007 at 02:13 PM
Josh and Ryan's friends and family that post on here, show each and every time how ignorant they really are. There is NO DOUBT a race was in progress. There was no innocent mistake. Your boys KILLED Keith Hoffer. Its no punishment to have shame. What a crock! Wake up to reality! Use spell check as another stated. Speak in complete sentences. Stop covering up the facts. You are as guilty as they are. Obviously you think its okay to do what they did. How about some apologies for the death and stupidity that was committed. The reason people say things on here, is because we are hurt and grieving and you flat out make excuses for the boys. Dozzy should not have died that day and Josh and Ryan are DIRECTLY responsible for that. Until you decide to act like grown adults with a logical and compassionate demeanor, expect to get blasted by others on here.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: IN on Dec 25, 2007 at 06:29 PM
Manslaughter is killing without prior intent. The actions of ryan were not mean to kill but that was the consequence of foolish decisions. Whether they were racing or not,driving is a privilege and not a right. Driving at high speeds puts everybody in danger. Young people think they are invincible and laugh in the face of danger. Nobody is laughing now.
Posted by: the truth Location: Indiana on Dec 19, 2007 at 02:10 PM
Read the police reports in last weeks Bourbon News Mirror dated Dec.12,2007!! I pray for the Hoffer family.
Posted by: Hasko Location: laport on Dec 19, 2007 at 10:10 AM
i just wanted to wish the famlies the best luck and to hold your heads up hope josh gets better soon and i hope ryan doesnt get in to much trouble because what happened i think is enough punishment because it was an accident so i think everybody bad mouthing him should shut there mouths
Posted by: cassie Location: atwood on Dec 19, 2007 at 09:36 AM
Ryan id my brother and for you people to sit here and say that he should be charged with manslaughter can go to hell cuz he didnt mean to kill anyone AND FOR THE RECORD THEY WERE NOT RACING so stop saying it all you people think you know the story and you dont so why dont you just shut up and mind your own business and let us mind ours.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: in on Dec 19, 2007 at 09:02 AM
ever body needs to blame one person that did this in thats is the driver ryan the other boys didnt due this especailly josh he was the passendger its shame that it happen accident it was no accident it was reckless driving on ryan part not nobdy else he has his on mind no right from wrong he wants to be and adult then try him as an adult. ryan is the only one to blame for this nobody else mr hoffer and josh was just in the wrong place wrong time. the police need to arrest him for manslaughter in reckless hommicied.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: in on Dec 19, 2007 at 08:49 AM
i believe that ryan should pay for what he has done nobody in there right mind would of drove that fast. he should be charge for manslaughter. and reckless driving. it maybe been a game to him but look what happenone one died and the other boy josh is in bad shape.. if this was ryan that died are was hurt his parents would sue the pants off the other familes. the police need to arrest you ryan in put you in jail for a long time nobody else cause this but you acting stupied again you will never ever learn because thats the person your are. u say your sorry but if you where sorry be a man in grow up before you do this again because you will it will take time . because you say have learn you lesson but you havent.your the only one that cause this accident not mr hoffer are josh you where behind the wheel nobody else. i hope the parents sue the pants off you and mr hoffer familes sues you too. you may cry and be sad but you watch you will drive fast again because you like that rush
Posted by: Anonymous Location: warsaw on Dec 19, 2007 at 05:06 AM
how can any of u people sit here and say these boys did nothing wrong police reports and everything show that they did....Oh lets race in a no passing zone up a hill to see who's car is faster....STUPID....yea they tell their families whatt hey want to hear...Gee, if they would have just went out and shot someone and said it was an accident u going to believe them then to?
Posted by: shawna Location: bourbon on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:00 PM
i know everybody involved in this wreck and i do believe that it was all in accident. Doozy was a great guy i remember seeing him as a kid at the lil ice cream shop thoughts go out to his family!!! as for ryan blake and josh i know none of them would ever hurt or kill anybody on purpose. i dont know all the details of the wreck and im sure half of the ppl leaving comment dont know either. ryan blake and josh i pray for you guys. be strong and keep your head up.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: etna green on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:41 PM
that wreck needs to be in the Guinness world records thats the worse wreck ive ever seen. thoughts go out to all those involved
Posted by: betty Location: etna green on Dec 15, 2007 at 10:22 PM
I hope and pray the boys have learned a valuable lesson, and realize the reality of how quickly lives are taken away. Pray for all numerous family members, involved. This is so sad, and now we have the Holidays, upon us.
Posted by: n o name Location: in. on Dec 13, 2007 at 10:11 PM
this is getting blowed way out. people saying things about the accident dont even really no what hapeen it should be up to police to make the report on the accident in nobody else. how would you like if this was you where in this accident in people where saying this about you without the real facts nobody now except the police department what really happen. e verybody needs to keep there remarks to there self
Posted by: maegan on Dec 12, 2007 at 09:35 AM
these comments are just making more ppl hurt an suffer more than they really should.
Posted by: maegan on Dec 12, 2007 at 09:33 AM
i think people should just mind their own business an let god do wat he thinks should be done... things happen for a reason everybody jokes around until somebody gets hurt now look they learned their lesson...its not like they did it on purpose they were just messing around like any other teenager does...even older people i know race not just 17-18 yr olds. its just life not anybodys fault an all u ppl r doing is placing blame on something u know nothing about...the only ppl that really know nething bout this is their families, friends, and them. Plus u shouldnt judge ppl wen u dont even kno them its not right an u wouldnt like it if it happened to u. It was an accident an accidents happen everyday, even with older ppl not just teens. Everybody thinks just cuz ur young ur stupid well thats not true i kno old an young ppl an hang out wit both of em an they act the same an just as imature as other ppl are no matter what age......so just stop complaining an let it b.
Posted by: Cash Location: Bourbon on Dec 11, 2007 at 11:26 PM
"Thou shall not judge" -THE BIBLE stop wasting your time... these comments are going NO WHERE!
Posted by: Dont worry about it Location: Indiana on Dec 11, 2007 at 10:13 PM
To all thoses people whos saying the boys need to rot in hell needs to drop dead. you people dont know anything about the wreck or what the boys are going through. So keep your mouth shut ok. im tired of people talking smak when they dont know anything!!
Posted by: sad in Tennessee Location: Tennessee on Dec 11, 2007 at 09:54 AM
Sorry, I failed to mention one thing, as for living in "Tennessee" and that my knowledge is only heresay, that is not important to me. The ONLY important thing is that my cousing is laying in a hospital bed fighting for his life, and my family is at his bedside praying for his recovery, and I was not even told of any events of the accident, and at this point don't really care because our family is focusing on the survival of Josh.
Posted by: sad in Tennessee Location: Tennessee on Dec 11, 2007 at 09:45 AM
Lyff, I didn't assume everyone on here was 18, I said "most", and there is a difference. And I also believe in freedome of speech. I also believe that in the end, God will be judge over all that happened. All I was trying to say was that people should be careful and think before they say things that they cannot take back. The families of the people in this tragedy are the ones that are getting impacted by the words people say, both negative and positive. And once words are spoken, they plant seeds that grow and grow. I meant no offense to anyone, just to be careful what you say...And ymaybe you are right, I need to quit reading these posts because in the end, all they do is cause people to hurt more.
Posted by: Travis Location: Plymouth on Dec 11, 2007 at 09:00 AM
I am friends with everyone that was involved in this incident and ii really think most of the comments on this site are really uncalled for. Eveeryone is hurting in this incident. Ryan was just at my house a few days before. It was really hard to swallow at first. Yes, they were probably speeding and playing around a little bit, but i know when you were all 19 20 years old, you were all at fault for speeding and negligent driving. Im sure that Ryan is paying the price. He has to live with that the rest of his life. He never wouldve wanted that to happen. He wouldve given his life for his friend and Doozy. As for Josh, i pray that he gets better. I pray for Doozys family. They lost someone real special and he has taken the ultimate ride home to heaven. I just think that everyone should pray for all the families involved in this accident. Im sure that noone was supposed to get hurt. It was just an accident people. Cant you see that?
Posted by: Anonymous Location: IN on Dec 11, 2007 at 01:51 AM
I REALLY HOPE THESE IDIOTIC BOYS GET CHARGED WITH SOME GOOD TIME AND SPEND HALF THEIR LIFE IF NOT ALL OF IT PRISON AWAY FROM THEIR FAMILIES JUST LIKE MR.HOFFERS FAMILY HAS TO SPEND AWAY FROM HIM....YEAH, HE MAY BE IN HEAVEN AND IN A BETTER PLACE THAN THIS CRAZY WORLD, BUT THEY ARE STUPID AND I HOPE THEY ARE HURTING BAD AND EVERYONE STICKING UP FOR THEM SHOULD FEEL STUPID TOO....I HOPE THEY ROT IN HELL...SORRY TO SAY BUT ANYONE THAT STUPID DOES NOT DESERVE TO BE OUT ON ANY STREETS
Posted by: Cash Location: Bourbon on Dec 11, 2007 at 01:13 AM
what if ryan was someone else you knew... if you got something negative to say dont say it all, because you tick people off... you obviously have no sympathy for anyone... yeah all the kids involved have been around the block a couple times but i believe this is going to be a huge wake up for everyone that knows ryan and josh and maybe this wreck opened some one's eyes that will make that decision to not put that pedal to the floor... or maybe everyone that caught wind of all this will have second thoughts about driving fast... i'll be the first to say that it has stopped me... just the other day someone tried me and i turned it down because it wasnt worth it... and on the day of the wreck i went to the hospital and on the way someone tried racing me and my buddy... and those kids thought they were so cool because we "chickened out"... whatever i know it wasnt worth it...
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 11, 2007 at 12:02 AM
One of my friends is a friend of one of the brothers of the boy who wasn't driving but was a passenger and luckily he was willing to tell me the truth of what happened. The boys were racing. Up a hill. They each had jettas and one of the jettas was newer than the other one so the wanted to see which was faster. They didn't see the truck until it was too late and now unfortunately someone has died. I don't know what should happen to the boys driving. I just hope that if everything turns out for them they don't end up laughing it off and thinking they can get away with racing again or anything else for that matter. One of the drivers has been in and out of jail several times but the police hasn't found anything to convict. The Lord knows our deepest secrets and what is in our hearts. Let him be the judge. Thank you for your time. May God Bless the families.
Posted by: Lyfff Location: Michiana on Dec 10, 2007 at 06:20 PM
Sad in Tennessee, You cannot assume everyone posting on here is over 18 years old. Furthermore, living 18 years does not qualify one to be an adult, just as sitting in a garage does not make one a car. I am over 40 years old, & still struggle at times being an adult. Expression of ones opinion, whether good or bad, is ones constitutional right. It is amazing how people shout "FREEDOM OF SPEECH" until it upsets their wagon! To judge those who are expressing their feelings in a time of grief is a true mark of immaturity on your part. DENIAL & ANGER are two steps in the grieving process. If what is being posted on this website upsets you, then do not look at it. From your location (Tennessee) your knowledge of the event is most likely only hearsay. The only one who definitively knows the truth of the event is God. Forensics will uncover the evidence, & submit it to the court. The boys who were in the lead car cannot be trusted for the truth, & most likely Ryan & Josh do not remember.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: IN on Dec 10, 2007 at 03:43 PM
TO ALL THOSE PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT DONT NO THE TRUTH FROM LIES NEED TO KEEP THERE MOUTH SHUT. PLEASE WE NEED TO PRAY FOR ALL THE FAMILES THATS HAS BEEN HURT BYE THIS. EVERY ONE NEEDS TO SEND GOOD COMMENTS NOT BAD ONES. BECAUSE GOD FORGIVES YOU. AND DONT THINK MR HOFFER WOULD APPRECIATE THIS NONCENSE THATS GOING ON. IT IS VERY SAD THAT THIS IS GOING ON . SO PLEASE STOP. AND PRAY FOR ALL THE FAMILIES.
Posted by: Sad in Tennessee Location: Tennessee on Dec 10, 2007 at 12:58 PM
I really think that most of the people posting on here are adults over the age of 18. I cannot believe it and you should all be ashamed of yourselves. You are passing judgement on others, not really knowing their situations, and uncaring how cruel some of your words are and probably not caring. Just remember, you need to clean your own back door before trying to clean someone elses. I believe that this is a time for us to go on. There are so many families and friends that are hurting and praying, and there are people all over the world, from Florida all the way around, that are praying for the people whos lives this has turned up side down. I agree with Emily that you adults should be ashamed of yourselves. We all need to watch what we say, because you cannot take words back, no matter how much it hurts another person.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 10, 2007 at 10:18 AM
for al you people who think you kow you dont and just to let you know they are no spolied brat my brother bought that car himself cuz he wanted it my family could never buy something like that he worked for it. You dont even know!! all you people think he did this on purpose he didnt!! HE didnt mean to kill anyone all boys have fun at some time in there life his fun just got way out of control and he didnt realize it my praires go out to the hoffer family i am so sorry that this has happened and i pray for josh.
Posted by: Lyfff Location: Michiana on Dec 9, 2007 at 04:52 PM
Jon, Jon, Jon, (shaking my head in disbelief...) DANG boy, use spell check! You are the one showing EXTREME ignorance! If "your boys" are as educated and bright as you, no wonder they make the decisions that they do. Another observation, if you are going to use a quote from a website- be sure it is correct. The statement you made refers to the Volkswagen Golf 5 GTI from a European website. The car is the sports version of the Jetta, thus the extra crash protection. Guess computer research is not your strong point either.
Posted by: anonymous Location: nappanee on Dec 9, 2007 at 01:59 PM
Indeed, it's so awfully sad about the loss of mr. Keith Hoffer..Our prayers go out to his family. The "boys" are all spoiled lil' brats, that never have grown up yet, and parents are buying them expensive sports cars, and letting them do "whatever" they wish, as they are not working ... who is this blake? or is it blame? They will all have to live with this guilt, their days here. I've seen one of these boys drive, and you would have thought he was on a high speed mission, the way he pulled out of his driveway, one day this summer. A lesson learned,we all hope, anyways. and maybe the parents will grow up too..
Posted by: LEN CLEMONS Location: BOURBON on Dec 9, 2007 at 02:26 AM
I AM THE FATHER OF JOSH THE PASSENGER OF RED JETTA THE LATEST NEWS THEY ARE MOVING CAT-SCAN UP TO SUNDAY MORNING DO TO LESS PRESSURE ON BRAIN NOT MON OR TUE AS PLANNED EARLY THANKS FOR ALL PRAYS FROM FAMILY AND FRIEND
Posted by: Anonymous Location: knox,in on Dec 8, 2007 at 11:04 PM
i feel really sorry for the hoffer family our prays go out to them. i pray for my nefew josh i hope he recovers real soon. he's got a long road of recovery a head of him. to those who our bashing and making bad comments needs to stop . remember the victims the one that got killed and also josh that still is in the hosptial in really bad shape. we need to pray for josh and the hoffer family. this was one bad accident and i hope this never ever happens to anybody eles's family members. josh we love you we will keep praying for you
Posted by: Emily Location: Plymouth on Dec 8, 2007 at 01:49 PM
You all should be ashamed of yourselves. I have never witnessed so many "adults" act so immature in my life. There have been many people killed and hurt in accidents. A senior died from my school earlier this year in a car accident.He didn't see the Semi that was barreling towards him. Was it his fault? I dont think so.Just stop talking about it. It was an accident.Do all of you seriously think they did this on purpose? Do you think that these kids should be held responsible for this. You should really think about what you are saying. Try being in their shoes. Josh I hope you get better and I cant express my sympathy in words about Doozy.
Posted by: Abby Location: lake wawasee on Dec 8, 2007 at 01:31 PM
Instead of all the negative comments why not do something positive like give blood in memory of this, obviously, very loved gentleman that was killed. pray for josh & his family.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 8, 2007 at 12:39 PM
Poor ryan, has a guilty conscience now. And that is punishment enough? You people make me sick. Lock him up now!
Posted by: CODY CLEMONS Location: MEMORIAL HOSPITAL on Dec 8, 2007 at 11:14 AM
THERE HAS BEEN ALOT OF RUMORS GOING AROUND ABOUT JOSHS INJURIES, HERES SOME FACTUAL INFO IVE HEARD FROM THE DOCTORS THEMSELVES: JOSH'S BODY IS LITERALLY BROKEN FROM HEAD TO TOE- HIS LEFT FEMUR IS FRACTURED, HIS RIGHT FEMUR SHATTERED, ONE BONE IN HIS RIGHT ARM IS FRACTURED THE OTHER DISLOCATED, HE HAS A BROKEN COLLARBONE, HIS RIGHT FOOT IS CHIPPED, HE HAS RODS IN BOTH OF HIS LEGS, AND PINS IN BOTH OF HIS THIGHS, AND WE JUST FOUND OUT YESTERDAY THAT HIS SKULL IS FRACTURED AND HES GOING TO BE IN A COMA FOR AWHILE; JOSH HAS A PRESSURE GAUGE IN HIS HEAD AND IF THE CAT SCAN GOES FINE MONDAY THEY'LL BE TAKING THAT OUT AND FROM THERE THEY'LL START LEANING HIM OFF THE SEDATION (MEDICALLY INDUCED COMA) TO SEE IF HE ROSPONDS, YESTERDAY THEY REDUCED THE SEDATION AND HE RESPONDED TO PAIN BUT NOT VERBAL COMMANDS; JOSH IS ALSO ON A VENTILATOR BUT HE'S STARTED BREATHING A LITTLE ON HIS OWN, THE DOCTORS SAID IF THEY CAN GET HIM OFF THE PRESSURE GAUGE AND VENTILATOR THEY'LL MOVE HIM OUT OF ICU
Posted by: Love one Location: Bourbon on Dec 8, 2007 at 10:16 AM
How would you feel if you killed a man? Put yourself in the drivers spot! Josh is doing a little better he is responding to only pinches on his toes and finger but not voices yet. We need him to wake up , but he hasn't yet.Please contiune to pray for him and Ryan too! Ryan has harder times to come when his cut heal so try to keep him in your prayers too. My heart goes out to Mr. Hoffer's family i know the boys driving the cars are so sorry but they will get punished too.
Posted by: Michael F Location: South Bend on Dec 8, 2007 at 08:18 AM
Believe me Kelly, someone with years of driving skills absolutely can control a slide and, more importantly, predict when their car is close to the point of losing grip with the roadway. Young drivers don't have this experience and still think they can do anything behind the wheel. As I said before, kids driving stupid on a public road is NOT an accident. If there was ice or snow it may have been different, but sliding on a dry road is actually quite difficult to do unless you really upset a car's balance with excessive speed and too much steering. I summed it up earlier....Poor decision with poor driving skills to match leads to the death of an innocent person.
Posted by: jon ( josh & ryon frind ) Location: warsaw on Dec 8, 2007 at 04:00 AM
ok for all u ignorant people who werent there and are saying that my boys were racing (witch they was not) and that think the reason the car split in half was because of Ryans speed. READ THIS. right off of volkswagen.com . (The crash optimized front end has impact-absorbing elements which are integrated into the front structure. These elements allow compression of the front structure during impact. We don't just watch out for our cars, we watch out for each other. It's designed so the energy on impact goes into the car and not you.) so other wise Keith Hofferhad to have been going at a high rate of speed.

If you are going to post multiple comments, please use the same name in the same topic. It's not fair to spam the board with your thoughts while identifying yourself as different people. -WNDU.com

Posted by: Lyfff Location: Michiana on Dec 8, 2007 at 03:22 AM
To ALL who do not know the details: The car did NOT fishtail. The roads were NOT wet or slick, as the snow had not fallen yet. A colleague of mine with law enforcement, and another at Memorial, stated that the boys WERE RACING. There is NO excuse for what happened. It was NOT JUST an innocent accident. In this case, the red Jetta is like a weapon used in a crime. Street racing ANYWHERE- other than on a designated racetrack is not innocent, it is a crime. It is a stupid, foolish, and immature act; especially on a country road, cresting a hill. If truth be told (and it is, on file in Police records) certain individuals in the cars involved have a previous history of DUI and partying. It's time to quit making excuses for these young men. They need to seriously consider what they have done to the Hoffer family, and to their own families. More than likely, they will be considered by the courts to be adults, and will be expected- as an adult- to take responsibility for their actions.
Posted by: Kelly Location: Indiana on Dec 8, 2007 at 12:49 AM
hi there is no need to be punishing these boys anymore we can not change time...I feel deeply sorry for the Hoffer family but you cant blame everyone people slide on the road everyday and get into accidents and that is what happened can you predict where you are going to fishtale or slide out of control?? NO it was an accident Ryan did not mean to kill anyone or hurt one of his friends but he will have to live with that for the rest of his life the courts will decide how to punish him but as of right now i think he has been punished enough let the courts decide STOP BEING SO JUDGEMENTAL... we all are in some type of pain from this just pray for the families and leave it at that!!
Posted by: JLS on Dec 7, 2007 at 11:56 PM
wow, it sure seems like people like to play judge and jury. I thought that was left to the law enforcement, judges, and God?
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 7, 2007 at 11:01 PM
So your defending them courtney? We wouldn't be attacking them if they hadn't KILLED keith hoffer!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Courtney Location: BOURBON on Dec 7, 2007 at 06:17 PM
Noone has the right to say anything. NONE of you were there. NONE of you witnessed it. NONE of you know what happened. And maybe we never will. But what happened has happened. I'm pretty sure the fact that someone was killed and a very close friend is hurt is enough punishment for now so get off of their backs. Dont you think they have enough to think about besides defending themselves? GROW UP!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 7, 2007 at 03:48 PM
50 years behind bars would be good if they make it, it not bye bye
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 7, 2007 at 03:35 PM
How fast were you driving blake? Tell the truth. I don't think two cars going "normal speeds" on the roads have an impact that literally cuts one in half. Think of the physics behind it. You just can't create that kind of wreckage. Adults aren't as stupid as you think. Some of us here have far my experience and education than you realize.
Posted by: Sad Condition Location: Tennessee on Dec 7, 2007 at 01:34 PM
You know, I look at the comments and it saddens me. Yes, the boys may have been driving too fast, but you know, everyone is human and makes mistakes. You pay for your mistakes. Instead of people making terrible comments on here about what was or was not, or who is or who is not to blame, people should be reaching out to the hurting families of the three people involved in this horrible tragedy. My prayers go out to each and every person affected by this accident. God be with you all.
Posted by: CODY CLEMONS Location: MEMORIAL HOSPITAL on Dec 7, 2007 at 01:18 PM
SOME PEOPLE ASK WHY GOD LETS THESE THINGS HAPPEN- GOD CREATED THIS WORLD PERFECT, AND WE CORRUPTED IT. "FOR ALL HAVE SINNED AND COME SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD." GOD'S WILL WASN'T FOR THIS ACCIDENT. BUT IT HAPPENED. THE BEST THING WE CAN DO NOW IS TO RELY ON GOD AND SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER.
Posted by: Svengali Location: elkhart on Dec 7, 2007 at 10:46 AM
Any word on vehicular homicide charges for the culprits? A good man is dead, because kids want to be kids. Too bad, now you should be charged as adults.
Posted by: Michael F Location: South Bend on Dec 7, 2007 at 07:50 AM
Young adults driving fast and fooling around on a public road is not an accident!! Period!! Half of you people have no clue whatsoever how many lives street racing and all that "Fast and Furious" crap takes each year across the nation. Fact is, now more than ever, any kid with a 4-cylinder econobox thinks they have a race car. These kids need to get it through their heads that their cars are not race cars and if they want to challenge a friend to a speed contest, do it legally with the SCCA or at a local dragstrip and not on a public road. I was taught before I began driving to respect the driving process and the damage that my decisions could do. Too many lives are at stake on public roads to ever even consider fooling around!! Please stop telling me that this was just an accident. This was a combination of a bad decision and bad driving skills leading to the death of another person. How is that just an accident?
Posted by: ex-medic Location: warsaw on Dec 7, 2007 at 12:07 AM
Hey Blake.... the more you post... the more intelligent you sound.... why don't you take some of you own advice and shut your mouth! I am not reading anything about how sorry you are. AN INNOCENT MAN LOST HIS LIFE! Grow up! This is real! Stop feeling sorry for yourself! The more comments you post, the more I realize how this "accident" happened!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 7, 2007 at 12:05 AM
who can honestly say that they have never done something behind the wheel that could potentially be dangerous? Everyday people speed, pass, and end up being okay. It was a terrible thing, that happened on Tuesday, one of which one man lost his life, and two were injured, one still in critical care. It is not just "teen" boys who are doing the wreckless driving, I have seen plenty adults who do the same thing everyday. I know Josh, and I have met a lot of his family.How can you say that they should be punished even more for what happened?Personally, I know that once the boys fully recover they will have felt enough pain, and guilt over what has happened, that they would not think twice about even speeding. Unfortunately, this wasn't a happy ending, and maybe this will open up the eyes of drivers and we can all learn to be safer behind the wheel. My thoughts go out to all of the families involved, and I am very sorry to hear about everything that has happened.
Posted by: L on Dec 6, 2007 at 11:07 PM
I just wish everyone on here could realize that no one is perfect,we have all made mistakes and with our mistakes come consequences that we have to face. No one is to blame for this incident,I think everyone has went over the speed limit before and they had no intentions of hitting another truck. Everything does happen for a reason and God has his reasons for everything in life,even if at the time you cant think of one possible reason why he or anyone could do this. In the end this is what he had planned, he knew this would happen,he has an un-defined answer for it that we unfortunately will have to wait to find out. I pray that you can all stop pointing fingers and saying "well what if" because no matter what has happened we can't change the past (unfortunately) but we can make a difference for our futures and grow and learn from this incident. I pray to all of the families and friends, and know that with God in charge you can and will make it through all of this. God bless
Posted by: Unkown Location: Etna Greem on Dec 6, 2007 at 11:02 PM
Let's hope this will be a wake up call to teen drivers in the area to not be so stupid on our roadways it is just not worth it at all....
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Warsaw on Dec 6, 2007 at 10:32 PM
You know to all these people that dont think these kids did anything wrong wrong...Well, guess what they did...yeah people drive fast, but not alot of idiots do 120 like these idiots were doing....the cars speedometer was stuck on 120 thats a little bit outragous and I hope when these kids get out they spend some time behind bars for vehicular homicide I hope they drown in their tears just like Mr. Hoffers family and friends are doing. As for you blake of course you are going to stick up for your best friend...why would u want him to get in trouble, but I think the right thing to do would be to come clean and tell the truth instead of lying. DONT YOU?
Posted by: Jason Location: Indiana on Dec 6, 2007 at 03:34 PM
Your posts show exactly how ignorant you are Blake. To think that these reckless boys "accidently" caused this horrific accident is totally absurd! There is not doubt a race was in progress and unfortunately Mr. Hoffer paid the ultimate price for some teenagers bragging rights. Although I would never hope that someone dies, but the wrong parties definately perished in this wreck.
Posted by: Blake Location: Bourbon on Dec 6, 2007 at 12:27 PM
All of you saying that its for attention and talking crap well none of you guys were there none of you saw wut I saw and it was an accident. U guys are on here talking crap and I am at the hospital with josh while he is fighting for his life I thougt I was gonna have to see my best friend die in front of my eyes if you werent there u shouldnt be talking crap. I kno u ar angry about wut happened but wut people are sayin is a bunch of bull crap just keep you mouth shut if you gonna talk crap I knew doozy and so did most of my family and I hurt for his family. It was and accident and that is all there is to it!!!!
Posted by: Rick Location: Mishatucky on Dec 6, 2007 at 10:42 AM
Its actually a fairly simple case of negligence on the part of the kids. Sad that a man had to give his life for their entertainment and enjoyment. I hope the driver survives and enjoys some time behind bars.
Posted by: CHRISTIE Location: KNOX on Dec 6, 2007 at 09:58 AM
THIS IS JOSH'S COUSIN..HE IS DOING SOMEWHAT BETTER..SOME OF THE SWELLING HAS WENT DOWN WHICH IS GREAT.. I JUST KNOW HE WILL PULL THROUGH THIS... MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO ALL DOOZY'S FAMILY.. I'M SO SORRY THIS HAD TO HAPPEN..I'M NOT MAKING EXCUSES FOR JOSH AND HIS FRIENDS THEY SHOULDN'T OF BEEN SPEEDING BUT IT WAS AN ACCIDENT.. I KNOW THAT DOESNT' MEAN MUCH TO SOME PEOPLE THAT LOST A LOVED ONE AND I'M SORRY.. LET PRAY FOR THE REMAINING VICTIMS TO HAVE A FULL RECOVERY!!! WE LOVE YOU JOSH!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Unknown on Dec 6, 2007 at 09:12 AM
Sounds like a bunch of kids messing around. Well, i hope now the driver will relize what he has done. Not only did his reckless driving kill someone, but severely injured his own friend.
Posted by: Lyfff Location: Plymouth on Dec 6, 2007 at 02:53 AM
Hey, Miranda: How did the truck hit the car "that wasn't moving?" Is that like, "Officer it wasn't my fault, the tree just jumped out in front of me, and I hit it?" This is the second news site on which you have written a comment, and you don't even know the details! Some people just love the attention!
Posted by: ex-medic Location: Warsaw on Dec 6, 2007 at 01:10 AM
Why do we always have to place blame.. thats why they are called accident. This didn't happen on purpose. Im sure these kids didn't set out to kill someone. I have seen adults do stupid stuff too. Any one who knew Doozy would know that he would want you to pray these kids pulled through... We have all made mistakes...We have all done stupid stuff... I just hope that all of the kids will learn something from this... they have to live with this the rest of their lives! Doozy will be missed by so many! God must have needed someone special....
Posted by: Larry Location: Ft. Lauderdale, FL. on Dec 5, 2007 at 08:49 PM
I am Chris Clemmons' step-father, Joshua is his brother. We pray for Josh and the boy who was driving the red jetta and all the families effected by this tragedy.Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Hoffer. May God embrace him and carry him home.
Posted by: Allie Location: atwood on Dec 5, 2007 at 08:02 PM
i will miss my doozy hugs you will always be in my heart
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Warsaw on Dec 5, 2007 at 07:29 PM
This accident is a tragedy, but you know if these kids would not have been racing and being stupid this would have never happened.....Everyone that knows Doozy has lost a great friend, father, grandfather, and most of all a loving husband. Some of these comments from the other drivers families are uncalled for and maybe their parents should have shown them some guidance in their life and taught them how to properly drive instead of being immature and stupid. I dont wish death upon anyone and I hope these kids make it, but I also hope they are charged for something and then maybe they will learn their lesson and it will never happen again....Doozy we all love and miss you....
Posted by: jon Location: bh on Dec 5, 2007 at 06:56 PM
i agree with Michael F. although i own a cavalier that is customized and it is only for show and i relize that, I don't need a 400hp car to drive 70mph on the highway. teens think if you throw on a body kit some stickers and a flashy paint job it makes the car fast so they try and race it and someone gets killed. if you are going to race take it to the track! and leave it there otherwise find a new hobby
Posted by: dave Location: northern IN on Dec 5, 2007 at 06:17 PM
My gosh, what a tragedy, Doozy will be missed
Posted by: Joe Location: Michigan on Dec 5, 2007 at 04:46 PM
This is a very unfortunate situation and very sad. From the comments listed it apprears that all of the teen boys noted here are friends. From the video clip shown... I cannot begin to imagine the how awful it would be for the boys in the "silver car" to see such a terrible accident and to be there seeing their injured friends suffer. I cannot imagine the hurt they must feel too for the death of Mr. Hoffer. I don't think we should assume that this terrible accident is the sole result of teens racing as some have noted here in their comments. We should let the police do there job and see what their investigation finds.
Posted by: Bill Location: Warsaw on Dec 5, 2007 at 04:25 PM
Mr. Hoffer was an outstanding volunteer at the Red Cross blood drives. His personality made you enjoy your time as a donor. I and hundreds of other Warsaw area blood donors will miss him. Many will be praying for his family. Good bye Doozy.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 5, 2007 at 03:42 PM
why were they racing!!!!!!!!! Doozy was killed by their stupidity
Posted by: Concerned Location: Bourbon on Dec 5, 2007 at 03:14 PM
I think we've all seen this type of thing before, and potentially touched our lives. I personally lost a family due to a careless driving error. Until you've had something of this magintude touch your life you can never imagine the loss and questions of why and how. I travel that same road everyday to work and home. There are many drives that speed and pass carelessly. My thoughts and prayers are with all family's involved. Doozy was a great man. I had the opportunity to pass by him more than once at local blood drives. Hopefully this will touch enough lives that people will slow down and pass with care. It might not hurt for local law enforcemet to patrol that road more often. There are a lot of violator's out there!
Posted by: Concerned Location: Atwood on Dec 5, 2007 at 02:31 PM
Before you pass you make sure the road is clear. How can you NOT see a car in the same lane until the last second? And then for anyone to say it was the trucks fault for being there? Come on!
Posted by: Michael F Location: South Bend on Dec 5, 2007 at 01:41 PM
Let me say first that this is a horrible tragedy and I feel for everyone involved. Having said that, Svengali's attitude, though not appreciated by many, is dead on with how young men are driving on public roads nowadays. I've been an avid racer for years with legal venues like the SCCA and I can tell you exactly what kids are doing on public streets when they have cars they think are fast and no adult influence. We've all seen kids with crappy Hondas with loud exhausts driving like crazy trying to prove that their car is fast or racing someone else. Communities like Southern California are dealing with these kids by crushing their cars when they're caught. Some movies and magazines have glorified the "street racing" life and every young adult with an econobox like a Civic or a Jetta or a Cavalier thinks they own a race car. My point is that, though I truly feel for everyone involved, I guarantee they were doing something stupid behind the wheel and here's where we end up!!
Posted by: christie Location: knox on Dec 5, 2007 at 01:38 PM
my husband and i are related to joshua clemmons.. he is our cousin.. my symphathy and prayers go out to everyone in our family and pray that josh will pull through this..
Posted by: Miranda Location: Plymouth on Dec 5, 2007 at 01:05 PM
Josh, Ryan, Blake, and Chase(driver of the jetta) are some of my best friends. i feel for the family of the man who died, but it was just an accident. there was no mail carrier, it was just friends following behind some friends. and the truck hit the car that wasnt moving, the car didnt hit the truck. the front end of the car is missing, my best friend was thrown from the car, still in his seat! he's in the hospital right now in critical condition with a broken neck. please pray for him. my prayers will go out to not only my friends and their families, but the friends and family of the man who died.
Posted by: Michael Location: South Bend on Dec 5, 2007 at 12:36 PM
I am for all intents and purposes the step-grandchild of "Doozy" (the older gentleman in the truck who lost his life and I can only speak for myself when I say that I appreciate the sympathies of all involved (friends and families alike). What I do know and remember of "Doozy" is that he was a loving Christian and like I said, gentleman he will be loved and missed. Again I must reiterate that I only speak for myself, to the families of the ones in the car.... it's sad enough that one person has already lost their life, I can only pray that the life lost is the only one out of this tragedy and though I am angered and saddened by what has happened my sympathies go out to all families involved, because this pain touches more than just 3 families, it has and will touch many communities in the area. We will miss you Keith "Doozy" Hoffer love Mike
Posted by: Medic Location: Elkhart County on Dec 5, 2007 at 12:15 PM
Stuff like this happens all the time. Being a paramedic I see this stuff 24-7. The kid these days need to be learn that they are not untouchable. I am sure that the person killed we be missed and I hope the others are going tomake it. I hope that they learn thier leason.
Posted by: Karen Location: Warsaw on Dec 5, 2007 at 11:24 AM
I know the family of the guy in the blue truck. No matter who's involved in the accident, it's a terrible situation to be in. I, too, don't appreciate svengali's comment. So uncalled for!!
Posted by: Friend Location: Bourbon on Dec 5, 2007 at 11:00 AM
Since learning of the accident, all are in my prayers. My daughter is a friend of Blake, Josh and Ryan. We are so sorry for all involved.
Posted by: Colleen Location: South Bend on Dec 5, 2007 at 09:51 AM
This is no time to make sarcastic comments,"svengali". It's a terrible tragedy - no matter what anyone says these terrible accidents will continue to happen, it's just a fact.I'm sure you have pushed the limit when driving at some point in time yourself. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families involved and my God embrace the one he took Home.
Posted by: BigRedEvil Location: Death Valley on Dec 5, 2007 at 09:29 AM
So from what Blake is saying, if it is true, the driver of the "red" car should charged with vehicular manslaughter (if they happen to make it out of the hospital). If the red car was in the other lane, then the red car was not hit BY the truck, the red car HIT the truck. There is a BIG difference. It is too bad some people just cannot get it through their thick skulls, that SPEED KILLS.
Posted by: Vickie Location: atwood indiana on Dec 5, 2007 at 09:18 AM
My prayers go out to the one that was lost. I am the mom of one of the victims we are so sorry that all this has happened. We hope that the one in critical conditions get better soon.
Posted by: Mitch Location: Warsaw on Dec 5, 2007 at 09:03 AM
The Atwood community lost a very caring and thoughtful individual. Mr. Hoffer could light up a room when he entered, just as he is doing now. He was vey active with the Red Cross. If he would have been the first person to the scene, he would have been doing his best to save a life. We will miss you "Doozy".
Posted by: svengali Location: elkhart on Dec 5, 2007 at 08:49 AM
go fast boys kill again....
Posted by: T Location: Granger on Dec 5, 2007 at 06:31 AM
To be going around a mail truck fast enough to kill someone is TOO FAST. I'll bet mail carriers fear for their lives every day with drivers such as these.
Posted by: Ed Location: Knox on Dec 5, 2007 at 03:16 AM
Sorry this poor soul was in the wrong place at the wrong time,Thoughts and prayers go him and his family.Ipray my nefew pulls through.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 5, 2007 at 02:10 AM
if they hadn't been speeding it wouldn't have happened
Posted by: Blake Location: Espich on Dec 5, 2007 at 12:29 AM
I was in the first car the jetta and there was no mail truck it was just the silver jetta and the red one. The red one tried to pass the silver one and didnt see the truck until the last second and tried to correct into the right lane, he over corrected and ended up in the left lane and was hit by the on coming truck. I personally witnessed the accident and THAT IS HOW IOT REALLY HAPPENED!
Posted by: Kelly Location: North Judson on Dec 4, 2007 at 11:14 PM
Hi i am a family member of the critical person i can't believe how the car looks it is a really bad accident and my thoughts and prayers go out to the family who lost a loved one...

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