DEARBORN COUNTY, Ind. — A fatal two-vehicle collision in rural Dearborn County on Tuesday morning, September 22, 2026, claimed the life of 19-year-old Muncie man Trent J. Laudermilt, according to information surrounding the crash.
Indiana State Police responded shortly after 6:00 a.m. to a serious collision on State Road 350 near Aurora. Current local reporting confirms that the crash involved two vehicles and resulted in the death of a 19-year-old Muncie resident. The roadway was closed while investigators worked at the scene.
Crash Investigation Underway
According to the information provided for this report, Laudermilt was driving a 2003 Chevrolet truck eastbound when it struck a disabled and unoccupied 2008 Chevrolet truck parked along the roadway.
The impact reportedly sent Laudermilt’s vehicle into a guardrail before it continued down an embankment. A passenger identified as 19-year-old Jeffrey Cole, also of Muncie, was reportedly ejected.
Authorities had not publicly released a full reconstruction of the collision in the earliest reports. Investigators were working to establish the circumstances that led to the crash.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Trent J. Laudermilt |
| Age | 19 |
| Residence | Muncie, Indiana |
| Date of crash | September 22, 2026 |
| Approximate time | Shortly after 6:00 a.m. |
| Location | State Road 350, rural Dearborn County |
| Nearby community | Aurora/Moores Hill area |
| Vehicles involved | Two Chevrolet trucks |
| Passenger identified | Jeffrey Cole, 19, Muncie |
| Reported fatality | Trent J. Laudermilt |
| Road status | Closed during investigation |
| Cause | Under investigation |
| Funeral arrangements | Not available |
Community Mourns Young Victim
Laudermilt was only 19 when the crash ended his life, leaving relatives, friends and others who knew him to mourn a sudden loss.
The collision occurred during the early morning hours as emergency crews and investigators responded to the rural stretch of State Road 350. Current reports did not provide additional confirmed information about Laudermilt’s personal background or funeral arrangements.
Authorities are expected to release additional information as the investigation progresses.
This report reflects currently available information. Details concerning the exact cause of the crash, additional injuries and funeral arrangements should be updated only when confirmed by authorities or the family.