“Man Found Alive After Truck Crash in Portage: Matthew R. Reum Survives Severe Injuries”

PORTAGE, Ind. (WANE) – A man miraculously survived a dangerous truck crash in Portage, Indiana, after spending days trapped in his vehicle under a bridge. The incident was discovered by two fishermen who were exploring Salt Creek and stumbled upon the wreckage.

According to Indiana State Police, the fishermen noticed what appeared to be a crashed vehicle and approached it. To their surprise, they found a person inside the vehicle who initially appeared lifeless. However, when one of the fishermen touched the individual, he turned his head and spoke to them, indicating that he was still alive.

The fishermen immediately called 911 to report the accident. Both the Portage Fire Department and the Burns Harbor Fire Department arrived at the scene and initiated a lengthy extrication process to free the trapped driver from the vehicle. Due to the severity of his injuries, the driver, identified as Matthew R. Reum, 27, was flown by Lutheran Air to a hospital in South Bend for treatment.

Indiana State Police investigations suggest that the crash likely occurred around December 20. The preliminary findings indicate that the driver, who was traveling west on I-94, veered off the road into the north ditch without hitting a protective guardrail. The truck then overturned and landed in the creek, coming to a rest beneath the I-94 bridge. Unfortunately, the driver was unable to call for help due to being pinned inside the vehicle.

The timely intervention of the two fishermen likely saved the driver’s life. Authorities confirmed that there had been no prior reports of a crash in the area before the fishermen discovered the vehicle. Without their discovery, the outcome could have been much worse.

Authorities stress the importance of informing someone of your travel plans, including the route you intend to take, and keeping emergency items in your vehicle. The driver’s will to survive and resourcefulness in drinking rainwater for hydration during the long ordeal in harsh conditions is commendable.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and communication during travel. The driver’s survival against the odds is a testament to human resilience and the willingness to fight for life.