TRAFFIC ACCIDENT PRESS RELEASE

On October 12, 2026, at approximately 3:29 p.m., a blue 2017 Ford F-150 driven by Brett Gehlhausen, 47, of Huntingburg, Indiana, was traveling northbound on Main Street (U.S. Highway 231) when it approached the intersection of Main Street and 19th Street.

At the same time, a red Ram 1500 driven by Charles Blessinger, 88, of Jasper, Indiana, was traveling eastbound from 19th Street. The Ram 1500 entered the intersection and failed to yield the right-of-way to the northbound Ford F-150, resulting in a collision.

Following the collision, the Ram 1500 overturned and came to rest on its driver’s side down an embankment. The Ford F-150 also traveled down the embankment and continued through a fence at Hopf Equipment.

Employees of Deaconess Memorial Urgent Care immediately responded to assist both drivers until emergency personnel arrived. The Huntingburg Fire Department subsequently extricated Blessinger from the Ram 1500.

Both drivers sustained serious injuries and were transported by EMS to Deaconess Memorial Hospital in Jasper for treatment. Blessinger later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His family was notified.

Assisting Agencies:

• Huntingburg Fire Department

• Dubois County Sheriff’s Department

• Deaconess Memorial Urgent Care

• Deaconess Memorial EMS

The Huntingburg Police Department extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Blessinger.