A Villa Park, Ill. man who wrecked his all-terrain vehicle Saturday evening in Marshall County has died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
Joseph R. Wilma, 37, was riding the ATV in the area of 12th and Queen Roads in Plymouth and ran into some large rocks, according to a news release from the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department. He complained of chest and leg pain and was initially taken to St. Joseph Regional Hospital in Plymouth. Wilma was later transferred to Memorial Hospital of South Bend, where he died this morning. The accident investigation by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and DNR indicates alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash.
Officials with the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department remind ATV drivers to always wear DOT-compliant helmets, along with goggles, long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Do not exceed the manufacturer’s passenger or weight limits, and ride an ATV that is right for your age. Riders younger than 16 should be supervised. ATVs are not toys and should be ridden on designated trails at safe speeds. They are designed to be ridden off-road. Do not drive on a paved road unless permitted to do so by law, as another vehicle could hit you.
