Police name victim in fatal crash in North Liberty

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. – St. Joseph County Police Department responded to a two-vehicle crash on Grant Road near Wilson Manor Drive Friday around 7:48 p.m.

Authorities reported that a Buick Century was traveling eastbound on Grant Road when it crossed the center line into the path of a Chevrolet Traverse that was traveling westbound on Grant.

The driver of the Buick was identified as a 32-year-old Steven A. Stopcyznski of North Liberty. Stopcyznski was pronounced deceased at the scene, reports said.

Officers state that the driver of the Chevrolet was identified as a 31-year-old Mishawaka native, and was accompanied in the vehicle by their children.

Four of the children, aged 8 months to 7-years-old, as well as the driver of the Chevrolet suffered minor injuries, but a 13-year-old child suffered a serious spinal injury and was rushed to Riley Hospital, investigators said.

All occupants of the Traverse appear to have been properly restrained, concluded officials.

Authorities stated due to the fatality and severity of the injuries, the St. Joseph County Fatal Crash Team was activated to continue the investigation.