Sullivan County, Indiana is mourning the death of 59-year-old Bradley D. Galenski of Sullivan, who was killed in a head-on collision on US 41 near Old Highway 54. The crash remains under active investigation by the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post.
According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred around 11:00 a.m. when Galenski was driving a 1998 Ford Ranger southbound in the northbound lanes of US 41. Authorities said multiple 911 calls had already been made to the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Department reporting a vehicle traveling the wrong direction, creating immediate concern among drivers on the highway.
At the same time, a 2026 Freightliner driven by 71-year-old Clarence Mackey of Alapaha, Georgia, was traveling northbound in the correct lane. Officials said Mackey attempted evasive action upon seeing the wrong-way vehicle approaching, but the collision could not be avoided.
The impact was described as catastrophic. The Ford Ranger was struck head-on, forcing it off the roadway where it rolled onto its side. Galenski was ejected from the vehicle during the crash and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Sullivan County Coroner’s Office.
The Freightliner crossed the median following the impact and came to rest in the southbound lanes. The driver of the semi-truck was reportedly not seriously injured.
Emergency responders, including the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, and other assisting agencies, secured the scene and assisted with traffic control, recovery efforts, and preliminary investigation procedures. Road closures were implemented while crews worked to clear debris and document evidence.
Investigators are continuing to examine how the vehicle entered the wrong lanes, including reviewing witness statements, 911 calls, and available roadway evidence. Toxicology testing has been ordered as part of standard procedure, and accident reconstruction specialists are working to determine the full sequence of events leading to the crash.
Authorities have not yet confirmed what caused the driver to travel in the wrong direction, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The sudden and tragic loss of Bradley D. Galenski has left family, friends, and the Sullivan community in shock. Those who knew him are remembering his life and mourning a devastating loss that unfolded on a busy highway in a matter of moments.
Officials say further updates will be released once the investigation provides more clarity on the circumstances surrounding the crash.