Ivan Savych arrested after axe attacks on semi-trucks on I-80

Ivan Savych, a 29-year-old man from New Jersey, was arrested following a series of attacks on semi-truck drivers on I-80 in Hammond, Indiana. On Friday afternoon, authorities responded to reports of a black Volkswagen driving erratically and performing brake-checks on eastbound traffic.

According to police, Savych exited his vehicle barefoot and brandishing a long-handled axe. He first attacked a 2025 Freightliner, puncturing its radiator and striking a headlight. The driver reported that Savych approached her cab but retreated after her dog began barking loudly. Shortly after, a second semi-truck driver reported a similar attack near the Cline Avenue overpass.

Following the incidents, Indiana State Police engaged Savych in a high-speed chase after he accelerated from 16 mph to 80 mph. Lake County Sheriff’s deputies eventually boxed in the vehicle. Officers recovered the axe from inside the Volkswagen. Police noted that Savych did not speak English and was uncooperative during the arrest.