Purdue police officer, motorist both treated and released from hospital after crash, arrest made

Purdue Arch

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. —

At 11:47 a.m. Saturday (April 23), Purdue University Police Department dispatch received a report of a PUPD officer involved in a motor vehicle crash just south of Cherry Lane on McCormick Road.  

Initial information indicates PUPD Sgt. Jared Baer was clearing a traffic stop from the side of the northbound lane on McCormick Road across from Schwartz Tennis Complex. With his emergency lights activated, Baer made a U-turn on McCormick to go southbound after releasing his traffic stop and after a large bus passed him going northbound. A blue Jeep driven by David Huizar, 24, of 330 Point West II Mobile Home Park, West Lafayette, was southbound on McCormick Road from Cherry Lane when the collision occurred. Huizar’s vehicle struck the PUPD marked car on the passenger side rear-door area. The collision sent both vehicles into the ditch on the west side of the road.

Sgt. Baer was transported to IU East, where he was treated for minor injuries and released.   Huizar was transported to IU East, where he was treated for minor injuries and then arrested for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing personal injury. Huizar was transported to and incarcerated in the Tippecanoe County Jail.

The Purdue University Police Department is working the OWI involving injury case. The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office is working the crash and crash reconstruction. The case remains under investigation.

More Purdue News

Rough seas near South Pacific island Nikumaroro viewed from aboard a vessel supporting the expedition.

Earhart expedition update: Weather prevents shore work for third straight day; crew to extend trip

October 16, 2026

The Marin Mainiku sits offshore near Nikumaroro beneath storm clouds and in rough seas.

Earhart expedition update: Weather prevents shore work Thursday; ID update expected in next 48 hours

October 15, 2026

A diver surveys shallow lagoon waters while a small support boat operates nearby.

Earhart expedition update: Underwater survey of Taraia Object begins

October 14, 2026

Two expedition members stand along the shore of Nikumaroro’s lagoon overlooking turquoise water.

Earhart expedition update: Crew arrives onshore, sets up operations on Nikumaroro

October 13, 2026