Four vehicle crash Saturday on US-12 involves semi-trailer

Published 6:29 pm Wednesday, April 29, 2009

By Staff
NILES – On Saturday, April 25, at approximately 7:35 p.m., Deputy Rick Edgerle of the Berrien County Niles Twp. patrol responded to a call of a four vehicle accident at the intersection of US-12 and South Third Street in Niles. Upon arrival, Deputy Edgerle observed four vehicles including a semi-tractor involved in the accident at the intersection.
Through an on scene investigation, Deputy Edgerle was able to determine that the semi-tractor driven by Thomas Tyszka, 26, of Marcellus, was traveling east on US-12 approaching the intersection of South Third street when he was unable to stop crashing into the rear of a maroon 2005 Chevy pick-up driven by Jon Thompson, 47, of Edwardsburg, which was slowing at the light also traveling eastbound. The Chevy pick-up then crashed into the rear of a tan 2005 Jeep Liberty driven by Todd Tighe, 47, of Cassopolis, also heading east on US-12 which then crashed into a black 2008 Toyota Scion driven by Michael Newcomer, 17, of Niles, heading North on South Third Street.
The driver of the Chevy pick-up stated he saw the semi-tractor approaching and tried to get out of the way but the semi-tractor hit him causing him to go into the intersection and crash into the Jeep Liberty which then crashed into the Toyota Scion heading northbound on South Third.
The driver of the Chevy pick-up along with the driver and passenger of the Jeep Liberty were transported by SMCAS ambulance to Memorial Hospital of South Bend, Ind. for treatment of minor injuries. The Michigan State Police along with the Niles Township Fire Department assisted with the scene and traffic until the vehicles could be removed.
Clark's towing arrived and removed all four vehicles from the scene.
Thomas Tyszka was cited for failing to stop in assured clear distance ahead and lodged for an outstanding warrant out of Cass County. Charges are also being sought on Tyszka for possession of narcotics which was also found on scene by Deputy Edgerle.