Three Indiana State University students died in a single-vehicle accident early Sunday, according to a press release from the school.
The accident involved five people in the vehicle, including multiple football players. Two of the students were treated for injuries. The identities of the students have not yet been released.
“This is a terrible tragedy,” ISU President Dr. Deborah J. Curtis said. “As we are waiting on additional details from authorities investigating this accident, our hearts go out to the families and friends of the students involved.”
Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse released information regarding the accident in a statement on Sunday.
“The vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree. Upon deputies arrival, the vehicle, occupied by a driver and four passengers, was on fire,” he wrote. “Two of the occupants were able to be freed from the vehicle and were transported for medical treatment with serious injuries. Unfortunately, the driver and two other occupants were pronounced deceased on the scene.”
The accident happened on Indiana Highway 46 near Main Street in Riley, a small town about 10 miles from Terre Haute, where the university is located. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a large tree before bursting into flames. The accident is currently under investigation.
A Sunday 1 p.m. women’s soccer game has been rescheduled following the news of the tragedy.
Indiana State University head football coach Curt Mallory released only a brief statement on Sunday afternoon.
“Thank you for all the support during this very difficult time,” Mallory wrote.
Thank you for all the support during this very difficult time. https://t.co/0RGuslCt8Y
— Curt Mallory (@CmalryMallory) August 21, 2022
Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-IN) shared a statement on Twitter following the tragedy.
“My heart goes out to the families and friends of the Indiana State University students tragically killed in a car crash early today. I am praying for the entire ISU community,” he wrote.
This is a developing story. Updates may be added.