SYRACUSE - A Pierceton man is dead following an early morning crash today.
The Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department responded to a call at 5:55 a.m. on Ind. 13 near Southshore Drive.
According to witness statements, a 1994 GMC Safari van, driven southbound by Charles F. Robinson, 31, East Heritage Drive, Pierceton, went across the center line on Ind. 13 and struck a 2007 GMC Sierra, driven by Richard L. Shanahan, 60, EMS B 25 Lane, Pierceton.
Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene by the Kosciusko County Coroner's Office. The cause of death was forced blunt trauma.
Robinson was not wearing a seat belt.
Also in Robinson's vehicle was Xyla R. Shafer, 2, Pierceton. Robinson was the boyfriend of Shafer's mother.
Robinson was returning home after dropping off his girlfriend at work.
Shafer was in a car seat and suffered a minor cut and abrasion. She was treated and released from Kosciusko Community Hospital.
Shanahan was airlifted by Samaritan to Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne, where he is currently in the intensive care unit.
According to police, alcohol is not believed to be a factor.
Syracuse Police, Syracuse Fire, Syracuse EMS and North Webster EMS assisted at the scene.
