Two elderly people lost their lives in a tragic crash involving an Amish buggy and a dump truck in LaGrange County, Indiana. The incident happened on December 3, 2025, around 3 p.m. on U.S. 20 near County Road 1000 West, when the truck drifted onto the shoulder and struck the buggy.

Crash Details Emerge

Indiana State Police responded quickly to the scene on eastbound U.S. 20. Reports show the buggy was moving along the shoulder, a common path for Amish travelers in the area.

The dump truck, a white 2019 Ford F550, veered off the main road for reasons still under review. This caused a direct collision that destroyed the buggy and led to the immediate deaths of its occupants.

Witnesses described a chaotic aftermath, with emergency crews working to secure the area. Traffic backed up for hours as investigators gathered evidence from the roadway.

No other vehicles were involved, and the truck driver stayed at the scene to cooperate with authorities.

Victims Remembered as Local Couple

The LaGrange County Coroner’s Office named the victims as Marvin Shrock, 75, and Ruby Shrock, 74, both from Shipshewana. They were husband and wife, known in their Amish community for their quiet lives and family ties.

Family members were notified soon after the crash, and the community has started to mourn. Shipshewana, a town with a large Amish population, often sees buggies sharing roads with modern vehicles.

Local residents recall the Shrocks as kind neighbors who farmed and attended church regularly. Their deaths mark a sad loss for the tight-knit group.

Ongoing Police Investigation

Indiana State Police stated that drugs and alcohol do not appear to play a role in the crash. The truck driver has not faced charges yet, but the probe continues.

Experts are looking into factors like road conditions, vehicle speed, and possible distractions. Weather was clear that afternoon, ruling out fog or rain as causes.

The shoulder in that stretch of U.S. 20 includes a wide buggy lane designed for safer travel. Questions remain about why the truck left the main lanes.

• Investigators collected debris from the buggy and truck for analysis.
• Roadside cameras, if available, could provide video evidence.
• Witness statements will help piece together the sequence of events.

Police plan to release more details as they review findings from the scene.

Impact on the Amish Community

The crash has shaken Shipshewana and nearby areas where Amish families rely on horse-drawn buggies for daily travel. Many now worry about road safety amid growing traffic.

Community leaders have called for better awareness among drivers. Local schools and churches may hold meetings to discuss precautions.

Support has poured in from neighbors, with funds raised for funeral costs since Amish groups often avoid insurance. This event highlights the challenges of blending traditional lifestyles with modern roadways.

In recent months, similar accidents have prompted talks about adding more signs or lights to buggies.

Broader Safety Concerns

Amish buggy crashes are not rare in states like Indiana, where large communities live near busy highways. Data from traffic safety groups shows a rise in such incidents over the past few years.

Experts point to distracted driving and higher speeds as key risks. In LaGrange County alone, several crashes have occurred on U.S. 20 in the last decade.

To address this, some areas have installed rumble strips or wider shoulders. Education campaigns urge drivers to slow down and give space.

These numbers come from state traffic reports and underscore the need for ongoing safety measures.

Communities are pushing for stricter rules on commercial trucks near rural roads.

Related Incidents and Trends

This crash follows a pattern of accidents involving Amish buggies across the Midwest. Just last month, a hit-and-run in Michigan injured a family, sparking calls for justice.

In September 2025, another fatal crash on U.S. 20 claimed lives, leading to reviews of road designs. Patterns show many involve vehicles drifting into buggy paths.

Advocates suggest reflective gear on buggies and driver training programs. With tourism booming in Amish areas, roads see more outsiders unfamiliar with local customs.

These events remind everyone to stay vigilant and share roads responsibly.

The loss of Marvin and Ruby Shrock serves as a heartbreaking reminder of road dangers. As the investigation unfolds, share this story to raise awareness about safe driving near Amish communities. What are your thoughts on improving road safety? Leave a comment below and spread the word to help prevent future tragedies.