Authorities in LaPorte County have released the name of the bicyclist killed in a crash on U.S. 421 in Westville around 9:15 last night. They say 30-year-old Drew Schmidt from Valparaiso was riding in the middle of the northbound lane and was not wearing reflective clothing. He also had opioids in his system, according to sheriff’s officials. The bicycle did not have reflectors, either.
A silver Mazda driven by 24-year-old Justin Elden of Michigan City was northbound on 421 at County Road 200 South and hit Schmidt. Elden tested negative for alcohol or drugs and was not cited for any traffic violations.
The initial news release noted the area where the crash occurred is dark, and there are not street lights.
