An account has been established to accept monetary donations on behalf of the family of Indiana State Police Trooper Peter R. Stephan as the investigation into the fatal crash that claimed his life continues.
Trooper Stephen lost his life in a single-vehicle accident that occurred on Old SR 25, near Stair Road on Friday, October 11th. According to an ISP news release, he was en-route to assist another trooper who had called for assistance in Americus prior to the crash.
The 27-year-old was from Lafayette and had served with ISP for four years. Trooper Stephan is survived by his wife and six-month-old daughter.
Those wishing to make a contribution may do so at any Old National Bank branch under the name Indiana Fallen Heroes Foundation/ Peter Stephan. According to ISP officials, this is the only account that has been agreed upon by the family and the opening of additional fundraising accounts is discouraged.
A preliminary investigation conducted by ISP Sergeant Rick Brown indicates that around approximately 10:25 p.m., Trooper Stephan was traveling northbound on Old SR 25, south of Stair Road when his 2018 Dodge Charger police car entered a curve.
For an undetermined reason, the Dodge left the east side of the roadway, rolled at least one time and then struck a utility pole. As a result of the crash Stephan suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
ISP was assisted by the Tippecanoe County EMS and Sheriff’s Department, White County Sheriff’s Department, Lafayette and Buck Creek Fire Departments, Tipmont REMC, and troopers from neighboring Indiana State Police Districts.