This morning at approximately 10:37am, Mt. Carmel Police responded to a single vehicle collision on N 1550 Blvd., aka Poor Farm Road, just west of Park Road. MCPD arrived on scene and found a black Toyota Camry flipped on top of its’ roof in the wooded area south of the roadway. The driver, Justin L. Carpenter, age 20, of Palestine, IL, was found entrapped inside the vehicle. Carpenter reported losing control of the vehicle while traveling westbound.
Wabash General Ambulance Service along with Mt. Carmel Fire Department arrived on scene. Emergency units were able to free Carpenter from the vehicle where he was transported by ambulance to Wabash General Hospital. Stat Flight later arrived for air transport to St. Vincent Hospital.
Also assisting at the scene were units from the Illinois State Police and the Wabash County Sheriff's Office. Mt. Carmel Public Utility employees were nearby and also assisted the incident.
UPDATE from WVC Mens’ basketball coach Mike Carpenter:
Warrior Fans: With the permission of Justin Carpenter and his family, I wanted to give you an update, and to eliminate any rumors and gossip floating around on Social Media.
Justin was involved in a serious 1 car accident this morning, and airlifted to Evansville, with non-life threatening injuries. The Doctors just informed his Mother that there are no broken bones, but he does have some bruising and cuts. He is alert and awake.
They are going to do some MRI's now, as precaution, and he could be released later tonight. Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers.
Justin WAS wearing his seat belt, which likely saved his life.
Thank you,
Mike Carpenter
Athletic Director
Head Basketball Coach
Wabash Valley College
