Columbia City Tragedy: Teen Driver Helmin Ruiz and Passenger Trinidad Vasquez Killed in Fatal U.S. 30 Crash
Columbia City, IN — A devastating crash on U.S. 30 near Columbia City has claimed the lives of two individuals and left four others injured, sending shockwaves through multiple communities in Northeast Indiana. The fatal incident occurred when a car collided with a semi-truck on the night of Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
Indiana State Police confirmed that the driver of the car, 17-year-old Helmin Ruiz of Huntington, and his passenger, 40-year-old Trinidad Vasquez of Fort Wayne, tragically died at the scene. Authorities have notified both families, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances that led to the crash.
The accident unfolded just before 9:00 p.m. on the westbound lanes of U.S. 30 near County Road 500 East. According to preliminary reports, Ruiz was driving a passenger car carrying five individuals when, for reasons still under investigation, it collided with a semi-truck traveling in the same direction. The collision caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle, leading to the deaths of Ruiz and Vasquez, both of whom sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency crews responded swiftly, working tirelessly to extract the remaining passengers from the wreckage. Four other occupants of the car were transported to local hospitals with varying degrees of injuries. Their conditions range from critical to stable, and updates are expected in the coming days.
The driver of the semi-truck, who has not been publicly identified, remained on the scene and is cooperating fully with investigators. No injuries to the truck driver were reported.
The news of the crash has left both Huntington and Fort Wayne communities in mourning. Helmin Ruiz, a high school senior, was described by friends and teachers as a kind-hearted young man full of potential and ambition. He was known for his warm smile, positive attitude, and passion for helping others. His sudden passing has deeply affected classmates and educators alike.
Trinidad Vasquez, a Fort Wayne resident, was a hardworking family man and a devoted friend. His family and loved ones are grappling with unimaginable grief as they remember a man who brought laughter and love to everyone around him.
Community members have begun organizing vigils and memorials to honor the lives lost in the tragedy. Local clergy, school officials, and counselors have also stepped in to support students and families as they process this shocking event.
The Indiana State Police, along with local authorities, continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Toxicology tests and mechanical inspections of both vehicles will play a role in the final determination of fault, if any.
As the community reels from this heartbreaking loss, messages of support and condolences have poured in from across the region. This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety.
Funeral arrangements for both Ruiz and Vasquez will be announced by their respective families in the coming days. In the meantime, friends, families, and strangers alike are coming together in solidarity to honor their memories and support those who were injured in the crash.