LAFAYETTE / TIPPECANOE COUNTY, IN — Crash reconstructionists with the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a fatal collision that claimed the life of a pedestrian jogging along East 300 North near Lafayette on Thursday evening, November 5, 2026.
The fatal crash occurred near the Piney Grove Drive intersection, approximately five miles northeast of downtown Lafayette, leaving the local community in mourning as authorities work to finalize next-of-kin notifications.
According to the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, the collision occurred at approximately 6:10 p.m. near the intersection of Piney Grove Drive and East 300 North, northeast of Lafayette.
Authorities identified the driver as 84-year-old Ned Slate of Lafayette, who was operating a 2016 Ford F-150 westbound along East 300 North. Investigators believe the pedestrian was jogging in the same direction near the road’s fog line when the pickup truck struck them.
According to authorities, Slate told investigators that headlights from approaching eastbound traffic made it difficult for him to see the pedestrian. The impact sent the jogger off the roadway.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation. The pedestrian’s identity has not been provided in the information available.
The incident is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly an ordinary evening can turn into a devastating loss. For the pedestrian’s family, friends, and loved ones, the sudden death may leave behind painful questions and memories that are difficult to process.
Our thoughts and condolences are with everyone affected by this tragedy. May the deceased rest in peace.
