Crime & Safety
Howard County, IN Crash Kills Man, 39, After Car Strikes Semi
Kokomo, IN – A 39 year old Kokomo man was killed Monday afternoon after his vehicle crossed the center of a roadway and collided with a semi truck in Howard County, according to Indiana State Police.
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-27T17:30:06.525Z
Kokomo, IN – A 39 year old Kokomo man was killed Monday afternoon after his vehicle crossed the center of a roadway and collided with a semi truck in Howard County, according to Indiana State Police.
According to the Indiana State Police Peru District, the fatal collision occurred shortly after 3:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26, along Jefferson Street near Bridle Way in Kokomo.
Investigators identified the deceased driver as Anthony D. LaCluyse, 39, of Kokomo.
A preliminary investigation conducted by Master Trooper AJ Coffee determined that LaCluyse was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche eastbound on Jefferson Street when the vehicle crossed the center of the roadway for reasons that remain under investigation.
The Chevrolet then struck a 2013 Kenworth semi tractor pulling a trailer.
The semi truck was driven by Cody W. Ayres, 40, of Bringhurst, Indiana.
Despite lifesaving efforts at the crash scene, LaCluyse was pronounced dead by the Howard County Coroner's Office.
Authorities confirmed that Ayres was not injured in the collision.
Investigation Continues
Indiana State Police said the circumstances that caused the Chevrolet to cross the centerline have not yet been determined.
At this stage of the investigation, troopers do not suspect alcohol or narcotics contributed to the fatal crash.
The department confirmed that LaCluyse's family has been notified of his death.
Multiple emergency response agencies assisted at the scene, including the Kokomo Police Department , Kokomo Fire Department, St. Vincent EMS, Howard County Emergency Management Agency and Howard County Coroner's Office.
Master Trooper Todd Trottier also assisted with the investigation.
The collision occurred along Jefferson Street, a roadway used by local motorists traveling through Kokomo and surrounding Howard County communities.
Officials have not announced any charges or provided additional details about what may have caused the Chevrolet to leave its lane.
Indiana State Police continue investigating the crash, and additional findings may be released as the investigation progresses.