At approximately 1:15 p.m. Friday, officers from the Indiana State Police and the Marion Police Department responded to a three vehicle crash on State Road 9 at 33rd Street, in which a Marion man died.
A preliminary crash investigation by Trooper Jeremy Perez revealed James Penrod, 77, Marion was driving a 2006 GMC Canyon southbound on State Road 9 near 33rd Street, in Marion. For an undetermined reason, the GMC bumped the rear of a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, driven by Brenda Wachowisz, 55, Marion. The Equinox pulled out of the way allowing the GMC to pass. The GMC continued southbound eventually striking a metal light pole at the intersection of 33rd Street. The crash impact caused traffic lights to fall, landing on a 2017 Honda Accord driven by Tessa Sivis, 45, Marion.
Penrod was transported via ambulance to a local hospital. Unfortunately he did not survive. Officers believe he may have suffered from a medical issue. An autopsy will be conducted.
Sivis and Wachowisz were not injured.
This is an ongoing investigation.