MICHIGAN CITY, IN (WSBT) — A collision involving a suspected impaired driver and a motorcycle left one man dead on Sunday night.
Authorities identified the motorcyclist as Matthew Castellanos, 23, of LaCrosse. He suffered severe head injuries and was pronounced dead at Franciscan Health.
According to police, Keith Starnes, 45, of Michigan City, turned left into the motorcycle’s path on Franklin St. just north of Interstate 94.
The motorcycle, traveling at normal speeds, struck the passenger side of Starnes’ minivan. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the incident.
Officers indicated Starnes showed signs of heavy alcohol impairment, as evidenced by portable breathalyzer results. He declined a certified blood alcohol test, prompting a judge to issue a warrant for a blood sample.
La Porte County Prosecutor Sean Fagan stated additional charges may be filed based on the blood test results, which are pending analysis with the Indiana State Police laboratory.
The La Porte County Coroner confirmed that a blood sample will also be taken from the victim as part of the standard autopsy procedure.
Starnes was charged with Level 5 felony reckless homicide and Class A misdemeanor operating while intoxicated during a court hearing. A public defender has been assigned to his case.
A personal background check was ordered to assist in determining bail.