UPDATE: Police ID teen injured in Granger crash

SBT24/7 News Report

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Slide-offs and accidents as snow continues to fall

Steady snowfall has led to slide-offs and minor accidents on area roads, including a Granger accident Monday night that critically injured the 17-year-old driver. (WSBT photo)

By SBT 24/7 News

Story Created: Dec 2, 2008 at 6:56 AM EST

Story Updated: Dec 2, 2008 at 8:56 AM EST

GRANGER — Icy road conditions and several inches of snow contributed to dozens of accidents Monday, including a serious crash in Granger.

St. Joseph County authorities said 17-year-old James Watson, of Granger, hit a tree just before 8 p.m. near Indiana 23 and Cherry Road.

Watson suffered life-threatening head injuries and was taken to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, according to Ron Brentlinger, the incident commander for Harris Twp. Fire at the scene.

He was in critical condition late Monday.

Emergency workers had to extricate Watson and an uninjured passenger, 18-year-old Jakob Maden, of Granger, from the vehicle.

The impact with the tree was directly at the driver's door, police said.

The crash was one of a number of accidents in Michiana, including a collision between a semi driver and an SUV at the Notre Dame exit of the Toll Road about 5 p.m.

St. Joseph County assisted Indiana State Police at the scene, where authorities say one person was treated and released for minor injuries.

Road conditions remained icy and hazardous in some spots Tuesday morning. Cass County officials said U.S. 12 was hazardous, and Niles Twp. emergency crews were sent to an accident at Gumwood Road about 5:45 a.m.

Drivers were faced with a sheet of ice at Brick Road near the St. Joseph Valley Parkway, where a four-car accident was reported about 6:20 a.m. and led to delays when the eastbound ramp was closed.

Indiana State Police at Bremen and other agencies said main roads were clear, but secondary roads were slick.

Travelers were reminded to use caution at bridges and other surfaces likely to freeze.

12:32 PM Jac wrote ...

The loss of this young man is tragic. His family must be devastated. My thoughts and prayers are with them. As for all of the people using this story as an opportunity to post their resentment for those who live in Granger because they have money...SHAME ON YOU! Those managing this website should review these comments as inappropriate and not post them. This is a story about a young man loosing his life. Show some respect for him, his family and human life

8:36 AM An Oak Ridge Neighbor wrote ...

Just so you all know... James Watson passed away from his injuries last night at 6:45 pm. He leaves behind a younger brother Patrick and both parents. We are all deeply saddened by the loss of this young man's life. Please pray for the family.

Tuesday, Dec 16 at 8:51 AM Friend of James wrote ...

To the person who posted "Also he was 17! he is still getting comfortable and it could have been his first winter driving. Just be thankful he is alright." He isn't alright, he has been in a coma for over two weeks! How can you say he is alright? He was a friend of mine, and it kills me to think he might not wake up. Please get your facts straight.

Tuesday, Dec 16 at 8:47 AM Shauntell wrote ...

James is a nice guy, and I hope he pulls through this. He is in my prayers. I really hope he wakes up soon.

Thursday, Dec 11 at 1:41 PM Janice wrote ...

oh poor James. You're in my prayers dearest! I hope for you a speedy recovery! And to all the other posters out there, could we please stop arguing long enough to pray for the injured young man? God bless!

Thursday, Dec 11 at 1:39 PM Tammy Walker wrote ...

And to the comment from "imma granger hatta now", granger residents are indeed quite nice people. Just because you work at a bank and see tons of moneym, doesn't mean you have more than me and my little granger family. We actually WORK for our money, and deserve everything we have. So stop being so mean to us because we're better than you meanie! p.s. its funny that you think YOU'RE funny and kept laughing at yourself.

Thursday, Dec 11 at 1:36 PM Tamika Jones wrote ...

Pennie, you really need to have a heart. You're such a cruel person, and we don't need people like you being unheartidly rude to people who haven't done anything to you. You really DO need to show some compassion, because right now, I see you as a compassionless women. Think before you speak next time ma'am. You're quite the disrespectful one...

Tuesday, Dec 9 at 2:43 PM Praying Friend wrote ...

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Hang in there James and keep up the fight.

Monday, Dec 8 at 5:20 PM Jenny wrote ...

Pray for James and his family. Please, don't be judgmental; accidents happen to everyone, no matter their age or place of residence. As a community we should pull together and pray for James to come through. God bless the Watsons through these tough times.

Monday, Dec 8 at 4:13 PM a neighbor in Oak Ridge wrote ...

We are praying for James and for your family. This is a very difficult time for you but know there are people who care about you and are praying for you every day.

Monday, Dec 8 at 12:01 AM anonymous wrote ...

you people truly are disgusting... James is laying in a hospital bed fighting for his life... stop talking about granger people.. driving lessons.. and all the other bs and PRAY FOR JAMES! he needs it more than your harsh comments and stupid comparisons. he is literally fighting for his life. just take 2 seconds to pray for someone who needs it.

Sunday, Dec 7 at 10:18 PM Courtney wrote ...

Wow, to think that this kid is sitting in a hospital bed fighting for his life and all these people have to say is people in granger are stuck up and rich and thats why he's hurt. Why dont u look in the news EVERY one is hurting including my family. Stop crying for yourself and do something about it. James is in my prayers because unlike these losers I understand what is important..

Sunday, Dec 7 at 8:59 PM Anonymous wrote ...

You people are disgusting.

Saturday, Dec 6 at 11:06 AM granger teen wrote ...

who the hell do you people think you are judjing granger residents like that. you think we're rich, my friend's family is in debt by $1000's. we don't all live in big houses, i live in a crappy small house built in the 70's. my family isn't rich, and niether is anyone else's familys that i know. and how did this converssation turn to hating granger anyway? there is a 17 year old in the hospitol and people are saying its his fault,WTF.

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 8:38 PM Connor Kuiper wrote ...

This time can be terrible for a family. Having a tragic accident and having people write negative comments about it is worse. Lets go people, this blog is about a 17 year boy that's family I have come to know. Start praying for James to pull through and his family to get through a rough time like this. This blog isn't about granger citizens and south bend citizens. Seriously, some of you people are ridiculous. My heart is with James and the rest of the Watson family.

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 6:48 PM Connor Kuiper, just down the street from James wrote ...

Everybody please look, we have a 17 year old student in the hospital tragically injured. I want everybody to please pray fo James to be alright. I wish the best of luck to the rest of James family. I understand how this feels on a count of my grandfather just died from a heart attack about a week ago. This can be an awful time in a person's life so everybody please drive safely. James is a very responsible kid because I'm always over hanging out with his brother. Hang in their James I'm with you

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 5:56 PM Anonymous wrote ...

You guys are talking about Knollwood people, not Granger people. Mishawaka should just go ahead and annex them. James's family does not drive big cars, are not big spenders , and have a normal sized house.

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 3:13 PM Wowww ima granger hatta now wrote ...

To the Granger Resident.... The fact that you think your better than everyone is funny!!! Just because you have a big house and nice clothes you think your better!!! Haha I work at a bank and believe me I see money way more then you will ever have and some of the people with the most money live right here in SOUTH BEND!! haha and FYI not everyone is as materialistic as YOUR family!! not too many people with money dress expensive either

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 3:04 PM Concerned parent wrote ...

Does anyone have any information on how James is doing?

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 12:41 PM Granger Resident wrote ...

Yes my kids are spoiled, yes my wife over spends and yes we drive big vehicles. We can afford to over indulge and we do! Our lifestyle and what we spend our money on is our business. The fact that we are better than others is evident by the house we live in and the clothes we wear. Stop being a Granger hater and make more money so you can leave South Bend too...

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 12:10 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Aww...even at a time like this people express their jealousies of Granger. How sad and pathetic. Also he was 17! he is still getting comfortable and it could have been his first winter driving. Just be thankful he is alright. everyone must learn to drive ...experience is what does it. It was an accident you morons. Get a life

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 7:13 AM old friend wrote ...

i've known james since kindergarten and when I found out I was super worried.. I'll be keeping him in my prayers and I know my class will too.. get better james!

Wednesday, Dec 3 at 6:06 AM Shawna Fisher wrote ...

this is rly sad. i was in a car accident back in may that has changed my life and people leaving negative comments on these websites makes it a lot worse.we all need to pray for james. he is a great guy i have known him since kingergarden.your in my prayers james!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:53 PM His brother wrote ...

Ok, first off, he was driving slower than the speed limit. Then the reason this even happened was James was going up a hill, didn't see the ice, and as he hit the accelerator he actually hit the ice, which shocked him, and this just so happened to be the first time he has driven in the winter. He instinctively hit the breaks, which was a mistake, but it took him completely by surprise.... Stop this negative commenting, and pray for him instead......

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:44 PM Dillweed wrote ...

I pray for this young man, Nothing worse than watching your child of best friend in critical condition....... Salt the damn roads, gas is a lot cheaper this year!!!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:36 PM Cherry Rd, Granger wrote ...

My question is, where was the helicopter, they could have got him to hospital much faster. They knew James was in bad shape when they got to the accident!! Let's thank all of ems and firemen that got him out of the car, very safely and quickly. They did a great job!!!!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:05 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I go to school with James and I know for a fact that he is a very responsible driver and person. It is always easy to place the blame on someone when one does not know much about the situation. His family and friends are going through a difficult time right now, so please rather than criticize teen driving, keep him and his family in your prayers.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:04 PM Mr. Obvious wrote ...

Teens aren't bad drivers; that's just when the bad drivers first get noticed.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 6:58 PM Prayer Warrior wrote ...

My and several other's Spirit-led and empowered prayers are covering James and the Watson family! We rejoice in the ways the Lord will use this situation for his Glory and to draw His people back to Him! We give thanks that James is covered in His unfailing love!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 6:39 PM Cornfusion wrote ...

Everyone had better start coming up with creative ways of getting around and like driving on a skating rink! The conditions of the roads are compliments of our county officials skimping on salt and sand to reduce expenses. Great place to make a cut, eh? Well maybe you people won't complain so vigorously when they implement the option tax. If you don't like it too bad, it's coming and it's for our own good! Personally I plan to strap a pillow to my backside but it's not to protect me from falls!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 6:26 PM Granger Mom wrote ...

Please pray for the family

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 6:24 PM Laura wrote ...

When coming to a slick/possibly slick intersection, slide the gear shift into neutral allow the transmision to stop turning the tires. You can then brake without the tires pushing you. It works!! Take it from a last minute brake user. I has save me a bunch of times. I have taught both of my kids and a nephew to use this method and it has helped. I wouldn't have helped this young man, but it may help somebody that reads this. Everyone was worned about the cost/shortages of salt. SLOW DOWN.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 6:12 PM Anonymous wrote ...

He wasn't speeding. He had been slowing down, and when he accelerated, it was that moment when he hit a patch of ice and spun out.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 6:12 PM live on cherry wrote ...

Just because it was a teenager driver everyone judges,my son was in a accident do to a blind adult driver who had a stop sign but pulled out in the road so my son couldn't avoid hitting him, its his fault, why cause he was a teenager!!!! Maybe our street department needs to get off their butts and plow and SALT our roads better, since this road is a BUS ROUT this could of been a Bus full of kids, My son went down to the seen and saw James if you would of ,you wouldnt say stupid crap.Pray 4 James

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 5:18 PM Kenny Carlson wrote ...

Dont push the brake pedal when trying to stop at any stop sign or red light. Instead let off the gas pedal and let it ride the SUV or any car you drive so it will come to a slow stop. At the end try to push the stop pedas little by little. This trick will save you and your fellow human being from being injured. Pennie by mercies sakes, take the refresher test first then wait till there is a big snow storm and try to do remember what you have learned. This too will help you avoid accident. Sorry

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 4:39 PM pam from granger wrote ...

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, I was at Martins in Granger last evening around 6:30 and the roads were absolutly terrible just on my short trip home I saw 3 accidents and I only live 5 minutes from martins. Come on St. Joe county road crews get the salt out there, I have never seen it this bad all my life in St. Joe County, it is unacceptable.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 3:45 PM Andy wrote ...

See - it's people like Granger Bob that give Granger people a bad image.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 3:38 PM Linda wrote ...

Many prayers to the family and I am sure with all the prayers and well wishes James will be just fine. As far as Penny and Homer, well I am sure they wouldn't print what I would like to say so I will keep it nice. ACCIDENTS happen in a split second. Stop being hateful and judgmental. Maybe you Penny should learn how to be a nice person. Your post shows just how rude you really are. You have nothing to be proud of.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 3:15 PM Granger Bob wrote ...

Our prayers are with the Watson family. Penny and Homer: go to hell!!!!!!!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 2:38 PM for real wrote ...

kudos for you Kristen . James is lucky to have a cousin like you ...

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 2:09 PM Kristen wrote ...

Please leave the teen driving stereotypes behind. James is a very smart teen who happens to be my cousin. Please pray that he will get better.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 1:50 PM Angel Mama wrote ...

Let's hope Pennie never has an accident. With the roads as slick as they are, it's a wonder there aren't more accidents. Pray for the young man and don't criticize until you have ALL the facts.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 1:49 PM Sarah19 wrote ...

I'm a 19yr old female and i think teens should have to take a test in the winter also. Ive been driving for 3 years now and ive driven with friends and my boyfriend and i think that he needs to be tought how to drive in the snow because they need to learn how to break way before the stop sign or way before an intersection or way before a car because not every teen knows about black ice. And yes Thank God hes alive, but we as teens need to learn to be more cautious when it snows.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 1:17 PM anonymous wrote ...

As I have been reading the paper, there were I believe 6 fatalities, all 32 years and over, all weather related. One teenager, and the claws and judgement comes out. Wow!!!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 12:57 PM for real wrote ...

Does Granger have anything to do with this ?... My prayers go out to James and his family .... Don't you think if this could have had another outcome , it would of been done already... Hence the word "ACCIDENT" We are very fortunate to have people like Penny so they can set back and state everyone's fault's ... NOT !it sure must be nice to live in her perfect little world ...

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 12:42 PM Laura wrote ...

You can drive as careful as possible, but things happen. Its not like this youn gman was aiming for the tree. When you are in a slide, you can't always steer out of it. I wish that all new drivers had to have so much time driving in the snow. But the drivers ed programs are getting so bad, I wonder if they are worth the cost. Neither of my kids were taught how to parallel park. I asked a number of other young people in drivers ed, and they weren't ttaught either. Slow down and be safe.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 12:32 PM Lori wrote ...

This comment is for Pennie. Do you think adults should get a refreshing course in driving on snow covered roads? I witnessed an adult do the same thing the teenager did yesterday. Fortunately for her, she was not injured. Have a little compassion. We all are guilty of not driving well on snow covered roads during are teen years.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 11:26 AM Granger Resident! wrote ...

Hey Homer, maybe you and Pennie should go out. You're both very quick to judge. If you read the entire story, there were a number of accidents including one involving 4 cars at Brick and the Bypass. Why do you have to question people living in Granger?

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 11:24 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Hey Pennie, thanks for your compassion. This teen is in critical condition! Instead of judging, why don't you try praying for his recovery!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:44 AM Homer wrote ...

What is with the Granger people!?!?

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 10:41 AM Pennie Almstead wrote ...

Teen agers need to retake the test that the state gives to them because as I see they dont know what to do when heavy snowfall comes along the hightways. This teen did not know how to avoid a tree and injured himself and thank you Jesus the passenger was not injured at all. All schools that teach drivers ed should make this teenagers to retake the test and evaluated his driving abilities when snowstorm is around. Otherwise it will continue to have accidents of all kinds by teens.

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 9:35 AM Cornfusion wrote ...

Yes, EVERYONE needs to slow down and drive even more defensively than when conditions are good. And towards that end, police need to start ticketing vehicles that are not COMPLETELY cleared off of snow on ALL window, driving too fast or close for conditions AND NOT HAVING HEADLIGHTS ON IN THE PRE DAWN HOURS! Just because YOU can see where you are going does NOT mean you CAN BE SEEN! And if the person who has a problem with me telling people how they should live doesn't like it, TOUGH! PARK IT!

Tuesday, Dec 2 at 8:31 AM Concerned Counselor at HS wrote ...

Please pray for James. Teens especially, please drive carefully in this winter season. Adults, you too need to slow down to keep youself and others safe during dangerous driving conditions.

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