Columbus ATV rider seriously hurt

A Columbus man was seriously injured when his all-terrain vehicle rolled over him yesterday in Ripley County near Holton.

Conservation officers from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources are reporting that 51-year-old Thomas Johnson was found pinned and not breathing under the ATV by other riders at about 5:35 p.m. yesterday. Paramedics performed CPR until he could be airlifted to the University of Cincinnati Hospital.

His current condition is not known, officers report.

The accident remains under investigation and authorities believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor.

Officer Joshua Thomas says you are strongly encouraged to wear a helmet and safety equipment when operating an off-road vehicle. And you should always abstain from drinking alcohol when operating any sort of motor vehicle.