PORTAGE, Ind. -- The Portage Police Department reports an officer was flagged down by a passerby who reported a vehicle crash had just happened in the 6000 block of Central Avenue on Saturday around 11:40 p.m.

Authorities say upon arrival the officer found a black 2006 Jeep Cherokee on its side in the front lawn of City Hall at 6070 Central Ave.

Police say the driver, a 29-year-old Portage man, was found inside the vehicle. He was conscious and alert but trapped inside.

The report states the man appeared to be the sole occupant and was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

Crews with the Portage Fire Department arrived and extricated the man.

Police say a medical helicopter was requested but none could fly due to weather conditions at the time

The driver was then taken by ambulance to an Illinois trauma center with life-threatening injuries.

Authorities say their investigation shows the vehicle was traveling west on Central Avenue at a high rate of speed when it left the north side of the road for unknown reasons and struck the southeast gas pump at the Gas Co. at 6090 Central Ave.

Police say weather conditions, excessive speed, and alcohol consumption appear to be factors in this crash. 

The PPD states criminal charges are pending toxicology results.