Semi driver asleep, drove into river

NEWTON COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - A semi tractor-trailer driver fell asleep at the wheel and drove into the Iroquois River in Newton County on Tuesday night.

42-year-old Robert L. Jones of Boswell, Indiana said he was traveling southbound on U.S. 41 when he apparently fell asleep.

Jones' vehicle entered the median, where it struck a guardrail, then a large embankment before traveling into the Iroquois River, about 4 miles north of Kentland, Indiana.

Newton County Sheriff's Officers responded to the report. Jones was rescued by water rescue units from Kentland Fire Department, Lake Township Fire Department and the Department of Natural Resources.

Jones complained of back pain and was also suffering from hypothermia.

He was transported to Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka, Illinois for treatment.