Rockport Indiana Tragedy: Driver Dies After Vehicle Crashes Into Private Lake

ROCKPORT, IN — A Rockport man lost his life Thursday night when his vehicle crashed through a residence and plunged into a private lake, authorities confirmed. The Spencer County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident.

Incident Overview:
At approximately 10:42 p.m. on December 18, 2025, deputies received a 911 call reporting a submerged vehicle behind a Rockport home. Upon arrival, investigators discovered that the 2024 Honda Pilot, driven by 38-year-old Matthew Gunn, had smashed through the home’s garage and backyard before entering the water.

“The scene was chaotic, but thanks to the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, we were able to safely recover the vehicle and locate the driver,” said Chief Deputy Ryan Parsley of the Spencer County Sheriff’s Office.
Gunn was pulled from the submerged vehicle by the Boonville Fire Department Dive Team and transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Timeline of the Incident:
Time (Dec 18, 2025)

Event
10:42 p.m.
911 call reports vehicle in private lake behind a home

10:50 p.m.
Spencer County deputies arrive on scene

11:05 p.m.
Boonville Fire Department Dive Team begins vehicle recovery

11:30 p.m.
Driver removed from submerged vehicle and transported to hospital

2:57 a.m. (Dec 19)
Emergency operations conclude; multiple agencies leave scene

Agencies That Assisted:
• Boonville Fire Department & Dive Team
• Luce Township Fire Department
• Ohio Township Fire Department
• Dale Police Department
• Rockport Police Department
• Spencer County EMS
• Spencer County Emergency Management Agency (Water Rescue)
• Ohio Township Newburgh Fire Department
• Warrick County EMS

Deputy Parsley added, “We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Gunn’s family and friends. This is a tragic reminder of how quickly accidents can occur.”

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the cause of the crash and encourage anyone with information to contact the Spencer County Sheriff’s Office.
(812) 649-2286