The LaPorte County community is mourning the tragic loss of 22-year-old Austin M. Vanasdal of New Carlisle, who was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Saturday night, May 30, 2026. His sudden passing has left family, friends, and loved ones devastated.
Authorities say the crash happened around 10:00 p.m. on County Road 1000 North near County Road 850 East. According to investigators, Vanasdal was driving a black 2012 GMC Acadia eastbound when the vehicle crossed left of center, continued across the westbound lane, and left the roadway. The vehicle then struck two trees before coming to rest several hundred feet from the roadway.
Emergency responders arrived quickly to the scene, but the driver and sole occupant was pronounced deceased.
Witnesses told investigators they had seen the SUV pass them shortly before the crash at what they believed was a speed significantly above the posted limit, though officials say the investigation remains ongoing.
As news of the tragedy spread, family and friends were left struggling to process the sudden loss. Those who knew him are now holding onto memories, reflecting on his life, and the moments they shared with him before everything changed in an instant.
The crash also brought multiple agencies together at the scene, including deputies, detectives, fire and EMS personnel, and the LaPorte County Coroner’s Office, all working through the difficult aftermath of the incident.
