One man is dead following a two-vehicle crash this afternoon in northern Vigo County.

According to a press release from the Vigo County Sheriff's Office, Joseph Minnis, 78, of West Terre Haute, was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries suffered during the crash. 

Deputies from the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office, along with West Terre Haute Police and Vermillion County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the fatal crash at the intersection of southbound S.R. 63 and Trinity Avenue, just before 1:30 p.m.

Reportedly, a northbound Buick LeSabre, driven by Minnis, lost control and crossed the median just south of Trinity Avenue. Minnis’ car was then struck by a south bound semi tractor trailer driven by Alvia Cooper of Dover, Tenn. Cooper was not injured. It is not believed that drugs or alcohol were a factor. 

The multi agency Fatal Crash Reconstruction Team was called to the scene to assist with the investigation. No arrests or citations are anticipated. 

Responding Agencies: 
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- Vigo County Sheriff’s Office; Lt Brent Hall, Deputy Jon Silver, Deputy Chris Sweeney 
- West Terre Haute PD Chief Scott Melton 
- Vermillion County Sheriff's Office 
- New Goshen Fire/Rescue, 
- Trans Care Ambulance 
- Indiana State Police 
- Multi Agency Fatal Crash Team

By Lynn Hamilton

Howard William Hylman, 23, of Terre Haute, was arrested Sept. 24 after allegedly admitting to setting a Terre Haute home on fire earlier this month. He is facing a charge of arson, a level 4 felony.

On Sept. 8, according to a probable cause affidavit prepared by Vigo County Sheriff’s Department Officer Norman Loudermilk, the Otter Creek Fire Department received a report about a house fire on the 22oo block of Haythorne Avenue. The fire department’s investigation revealed that the fire originated between the front door and screen door of the home, and that the cause was arson.

A witness had reportedly told police that he was driving by the house and saw a plastic bag on fire, and stopped to help an elderly person out of the house before calling 9-1-1. The resident allegedly stated that Hylman had been threatening him via text.

Hylman was located at his own residence on Sept. 24, and allegedly waived his Miranda rights. He then allegedly admitted on audio and video that he had started the fire by placing a lit cigarette in the trash bag, which had smelled of alcohol.

Loudermilk’s report stated that Hylman’s story fit the physical evidence found at the scene.
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Hylman was in court Friday. His next scheduled court appearance is Wednesday. Bond is set at $50,000,  with no 10 percent allowed.