Lake County, IN – A Lake County police officer injured in a head-on crash during a pursuit late Wednesday night is out of the hospital and recovering, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. The collision occurred along the I-80/94 corridor during a special safety enforcement detail.
According to Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr., the officer was pursuing a suspect vehicle when the crash happened. Martinez shared the update Thursday morning, confirming the officer’s condition and thanking residents for their support.
The sheriff also used the announcement to address recent online claims suggesting the department fails to serve northern Lake County communities. “That claim is simply false,” Martinez said in a statement. “Our officers provide law enforcement services throughout the county every day.”
Martinez cited the department’s High Crime Unit and ongoing blitz operations focused on violent offenders, drug traffickers, and criminal suspects in areas including Gary, Hammond, and East Chicago—communities north of Ridge Road.
He added that while misinformation can spread quickly online, the department remains focused on “delivering real results and making all of Lake County safer every day.”
Residents are encouraged to contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Department with any information related to the crash or ongoing investigations.
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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