Alonso Jose Lopez charged with causing death when operating vehicle while intoxicated, reckless homicide of Thomas Hunt Jr., 73
HAMMOND, Ind. (WLS) -- The family of Thomas Hunt Jr. is mourning the loss of the 73-year-old Gary man who was killed days before his Oct. 19 birthday in a crash that authorities say involved an off-duty Hammond police officer.
The collision occurred Oct. 16 near 165th Street and Columbia Avenue in Hammond. Investigators say Hammond Police Officer Alonso Jose Lopez, who was off duty at the time, was speeding in his pickup truck before it struck Hunt's SUV. Hunt's brother, John Hunt, said investigators told him Lopez was on his way to work and was under the influence at the time of the crash.
John Hunt described his brother as the oldest of 13 siblings and the patriarch of a large family.
"He took being the oldest brother extremely important. He felt that was a priority," John Hunt said.
Family members said Thomas Hunt Jr. played a significant role in supporting relatives throughout his life.
"His ability to adapt and live and make things happen for the family was substantial. And, that legacy that he left, that will be lost," John Hunt said.
Nearly a week a...