Robert Baker Jr. and Josefine Heger Obituary Churubusco, Indiana: 17-year-old girl identified among two killed in Whitley County snowmobile accident
Two lives were tragically lost in a snowmobile accident early Saturday morning in Whitley County, Indiana. According to a statement from the Whitley County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Blue Lake in Churubusco, claiming the lives of 44-year-old Robert P. Baker Jr. and 17-year-old Josefine Heger, both local residents.
Initially, details about the crash were limited, but on Sunday morning, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) released additional information.
According to the DNR, Baker and Heger were riding a snowmobile across the frozen surface of Blue Lake when they lost control and crashed into dense brush along the shoreline. The impact ejected both riders from the vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and attempted to provide aid, but despite their efforts, both victims succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Their remains were later transported to the Northeast Indiana Forensic Center for further examination.
The Churubusco community has been left heartbroken by the sudden loss. Baker, a longtime resident, was known for his passion for outdoor activities, particularly snowmobiling, which he enjoyed each winter. Heger, a high school student, was remembered as a bright and adventurous young woman with a promising future.
Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Churubusco Police Department, Smith Township Fire Department, Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, Whitley County Coroner’s Office, Indiana State Police, and the Indiana DNR.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, working to determine its exact cause. While snowmobiling remains a popular winter activity in Indiana, accidents can occur due to challenging terrain, limited visibility, or unexpected obstacles.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether factors such as speed or alcohol contributed to the crash, but the ongoing investigation aims to provide further insight into the tragedy.