Crown Point, IN – A Hobart man is facing multiple felony charges after a hit-and-run crash in Lake County left a motorcyclist severely injured on Monday night.
According to Hobart Police, officers responded to the intersection of S.R. 51 and Division Street around 7:40 p.m. on September 15. A motorcyclist was struck and sustained serious injuries, prompting an emergency helicopter transport to the hospital.
Detectives later identified the suspect as Michael Von Winkiel, 30, of Hobart. Police said the vehicle involved was located at a home in the 200 block of Brandt Street. Von Winkiel was taken into custody and booked into the Lake County Jail.
Court documents show Von Winkiel is facing six charges, including:
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death or Catastrophic Injury (Level 4 Felony)
- Driving While Suspended Resulting in Death or Catastrophic Injury (Level 5 Felony)
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Moderate or Serious Bodily Injury (Level 6 Felony)
- Driving While Suspended Resulting in Bodily Injury (Level 6 Felony)
- Driving While Suspended (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Financial Responsibility (Class A Infraction)
Police said the charges stem from the allegation that Von Winkiel knowingly fled the scene of the crash while driving on a suspended license.
The victim, identified in court filings as Justin Hopkins, suffered catastrophic injuries. His current condition has not been released.
Von Winkiel remains held at the Lake County Jail pending further court proceedings.
Hobart Police extended well wishes to the victim and his family, writing in a public statement, “Our thoughts are with the motorcyclist and his family, and we wish him a full recovery.”
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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