(TOPEKA) – A two vehicle crash claimed the life of one of the passengers.

LaGrange County Chief Deputy Sheriff Juan Arroyo says deputies were called out to a personal injury crash just before 5:30 AM Thursday. The investigation determined that 74 year old James Goodwin of Syracuse was driving south in the 5400 South block of State Road 5, when it’s believed that Goodwin fell asleep and crossed the center line into the northbound lane.

A vehicle, driven by 61 year old Martin Rodriguez of Ligonier was heading north, and told deputies he attempted to avoid the collision but was unsuccessful, and was struck by Goodwin.

53 year old Abel Salazar of Ligonier was a front seat passenger in the Rodriguez vehicle. He was trapped in the auto and had to be removed by the Topeka Fire Department. While on scene, Salazar became unresponsive and despite all life saving measures, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A backseat passenger in the Rodriguez vehicle, 58 year old Rafael Beccerra had multiple injuries and was taken to Parkview LaGrange Hospital.

All four individuals were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash. Assisting at the scene were the Topeka Police Department and the Indiana State Police.