Ferdinand man drowns in car accident

The Department of Natural Resources is investigating a fatal vehicle accident that occurred Sunday afternoon.

According to investigators, Mitchell A. Haas, 21, from Ferdinand, had left Jerry Kern’s residence on Sunday shortly before 3:00 p.m. Soon afterwards, Mr. Kern left his residence traveling west on County Road 175 South and discovered Haas’ 1997 red Ford pickup overturned on its cab in a creek that parallels the roadway. The cab was partially submerged in the water.

The 911 call came in to the Dubois County Communication Center at 3:04 p.m. The Schnellville Volunteer Fire Department, Jasper Memorial EMS, Dubois County deputies, and Indiana Conservation Officers responded to the scene.

His vehicle was wedged into the creek making it difficult for Haas or first responders to open the door to get him out. Once he was removed from the vehicle, he was resuscitated and transported to Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead at about 7:25 p.m.

Haas was transported to Jasper Memorial for treatment but was pronounced dead later that evening at 7:25 p.m..

The icy road conditions, the roadways decline towards the accident scene, and alcoholic beverages may be a factor in the incident.

The cause of death has not been determined at this time. The toxicology report is pending. The accident is still under investigation.

Haas had just been sworn in as a Ferdinand Volunteer Firefighter at last Tuesday’s Ferdinand Town Council meeting.