A traffic collision at the intersection of Stopher Road and Notestine Road in Springfield Township drew a significant emergency response early Sunday morning, December 7, 2025. The Allen County Sheriff's Office and Northeast Allen County Fire Department personnel responded to the scene, which is located just south of Harlan in northeastern Allen County, Indiana. The crash involved at least two vehicles—a blue pickup truck and a large white van. Emergency crews shut down the intersection while working to clear the scene and investigate the circumstances of the collision. A WANE 15 crew member present at the location observed law enforcement officers place one man in handcuffs during the cleanup operation, though authorities have not released information regarding the nature of any charges or whether the detention was related to the crash itself. The extent of injuries, if any, remains unclear at this time, and officials have not yet released the identities of those involved in the incident.

Location and Infrastructure

The intersection of Stopher Road and Notestine Road sits in a rural area of Springfield Township in Allen County, approximately one mile south of the town of Harlan. This portion of northeastern Allen County is characterized by two-lane country roads that serve both local residential traffic and agricultural operations. Rural intersections such as this one often present unique hazards, including limited lighting, reduced visibility due to crops or vegetation during certain seasons, and higher approach speeds typical of less-congested roadways. The area falls within the jurisdiction of the Allen County Sheriff's Office for law enforcement and is served by the Northeast Allen County Fire Department for emergency medical and fire services. Drivers traveling through this region should exercise caution, particularly during early morning hours when visibility may be compromised.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Indiana law, individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents may have legal rights to pursue compensation for injuries and property damage. Indiana follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the party responsible for causing the collision may be held liable for damages. The state maintains a comparative fault standard under Indiana Code § 34-51-2, which can reduce recovery proportionally if an injured party shares responsibility. Indiana's statute of limitations generally allows two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Victims may be entitled to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Those involved in crashes should document the scene, obtain witness information, exchange insurance details, and seek medical evaluation even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Consulting with a legal professional can help clarify individual rights and options.

Related Resources

• Allen County Sheriff's Office: (260) 449-3000
• Northeast Allen County Fire Department: Emergency services for Springfield Township area
• Indiana State Police – Fort Wayne Post: (260) 432-8661
• Allen County 911 Emergency Services: Dial 911 for emergencies
• Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles: Information on accident reporting requirements
• Indiana Criminal Justice Institute – Traffic Safety Division: Resources on roadway safety initiatives
• Indiana Code Title 9 – Motor Vehicles: State traffic laws and regulations available at iga.in.gov
• Allen County Highway Department: Road condition information and infrastructure concerns