Hammond Police Officer Held After Fatal Vehicle Crash
A 73-year-old man died after a collision involving an off-duty Hammond officer Friday night.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Accidents
An off-duty 34-year-old Hammond police officer was taken into custody following a three-vehicle crash that killed 73-year-old Thomas Hunt Jr. on Friday night. The collision occurred when the officer's vehicle struck two other cars on Columbia Avenue.
Why it matters
Authorities are investigating alcohol and excessive speed as potential factors in the fatal accident. The officer was initially held on a 48-hour probable cause hold before being released pending further review.
The officer was held on a 48-hour probable cause hold following a blood draw and has been released pending further investigation. The case is now set for submission to the Lake County Prosecutor's Office for review of potential felony charges.
The players
Thomas Hunt Jr.
He was the 73-year-old victim who died from injuries sustained in the collision.
Lake County Prosecutor's Office
This office is responsible for reviewing the investigative findings to determine if formal felony charges will be filed against the officer.
Hammond Police Department
This is the municipal law enforcement agency that employed the officer involved in the fatal crash.
The details
The crash occurred at 8:55 p.m. near the intersection of Columbia Avenue and 165th Avenue in Hammond. A 2024 Chevy Silverado driven by the officer struck a 2021 Toyota Highlander before rotating into oncoming traffic and colliding with a 2010 Ford SUV.
Timeline
The crash occurred Friday night at 8:55 p.m.
Thomas Hunt Jr. would have turned 74 years old on Oct. 19.
Legal Context
This incident is being processed according to established Indiana criminal procedures for vehicular fatalities involving suspected impairment. The investigation must now reconcile the officer's actions with state liability standards for felony vehicular crimes.
The investigation may result in increased scrutiny of traffic enforcement protocols in the Columbia Avenue area. Residents are advised that the ongoing review by the prosecutor's office could lead to further updates regarding official charges.
The takeaway
Authorities have identified speed and alcohol as primary areas of focus in the fatal collision. The case remains under active investigation by regional law enforcement and prosecutors.
Further reading
For more information on regional safety, visit the Hammond accidents section.
