Trucker Charged For Causing Power Outage, Leaving The Scene

An Illinois truck driver caused a power outage that affected Lawrenceburg and Greendale Thursday night.

Utility crews on the scene to make repairs to a damaged utility pole on Lorey Lane in Greendale after a semi truck hit it Thursday night, May 23. Photo by Mike Perleberg, Eagle Country 99.3.

(Greendale, Ind.) – A truck driver is accused of causing Thursday night’s power outage that affected much of Lawrenceburg and Greendale.

Greendale Police and Fire responded to a report of a tree on fire on Lorey Lane just after 9:00 p.m., says GPD Sgt. Kevin Turner. They arrived to find a utility pole broken, which led to the power outage.

Officer Clint Putnam investigated the incident.

“Through combined efforts of canvassing the multiple semi-trucks in the area for over two hours and with the assistance of a local business, he was able to identify the alleged vehicle involved in the incident, a blue 2019 Freightliner semi pulling a white box trailer,” said Turner.

The driver of the truck was Melvin Demonde McMichael, 33, of Normal, Illinois. He was placed under arrest and charged with False Informing (class A misdemeanor) and Failure to Stop at a Property Damage Accident (class B misdemeanor).  

Lawrenceburg Police officers managed traffic on U.S. 50 while Lawrenceburg and Greendale utility crews worked late into the night to restore power.

More from Local News


Events

MMH Earns Statewide Recognition for Innovative Approach to Providing Newborn Care

MMH received the recognition for its efforts in creating a sustainable model for maternity and neonatal care in rural area.

Bulldog Ready Student Ambassadors Selected

The students will represent the new career pathways launched by the Batesville Schools.

EC's Bentley Caps Off Incredible Career, Batesville's Wade Shines in First Season

The IHSAA Cross Country State Finals took place on Saturday.

Local Sports Report - October 31-Nov. 1, 2025

Football sectional semifinals and the IHSAA Cross Country State Finals.

Rising Sun Cheer Wins First State Championship in School History

They will compete for another state title on November 8.

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
LoCash - Wrong Hearts

Brooks & Dunn My Next Broken Heart 17:05
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 17:02
Tyler Childers In Your Love 16:58
Martina McBride Happy Girl 16:54