LEESBURG – A Milford man was airlifted to a Fort Wayne trauma center after a snowmobile accident Thursday. According to an Indiana Department of Natural Resources press release, Keith Hochstetler, 31, Milford, and some friends were operating snowmobiles in the area of CRs 600N and 150W on private property. Investigating officers determined Hochstetler was traveling approximately 50 miles per hour when he struck a snowbank and was ejected from the snowmobile. Hochstetler was then picked up by a passing motorist who witnessed the accident and taken to his residence. A relative then later drove him to Kosciusko Community Hospital where it was determined his injuries were severe enough to require air transportation to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. He was treated for internal injuries and was listed in stable condition as of Saturday. He is now listed in stable and fair condition as of this morning, according to Lutheran Hospital officials. Indiana Conservation Officers encourage snowmobile operators to wear protective gear and helmets when operating or as a passenger on a snowmobile, to never ride alone, never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol, to carry a fully charged cell phone with you and to operate within your skill level.
