ALDI employee struck by snowplow, critically injured in Merrillville, police say

MERRILVILLE, Ind. (WLS) -- A female ALDI employee suffered critical injuries after police said she was struck by a snowplow outside the grocery store.

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The pedestrian was struck on Tuesday at about 8:13 a.m. at the ALDI, located at 10 W. Lincoln Hwy., according to Merrillville police.

The woman was rushed to a local hospital with critical injuries.

Video from the scene showed the snowy grocery store parking lot taped off, as officers investigated the scene.

Witnesses say the truck appeared to be a private contractor, and that the driver stayed on the scene.

Others who work near the ALDI said investigators were there for several hours.

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Merrillville police used drones and other technology to get measurements and process the scene.

Meanwhile, throughout the day, grocery shoppers by the dozens were turned away. A sign on the door said the ALDI store is closed, and will reopen Wednesday morning.

Police said Tuesday afternoon the woman who was hit is in surgery, and still in critical condition.

The investigation may last several weeks. At this point, no arrests have been made, and no charges filed.

An ALDI spokesperson said in a statement:

"Our thoughts are with this individual and their family during this difficult time. There is nothing more important to us than the safety and well-being of our team members. Please direct future inquiries to the Merrillville Police Department.

"The store is closed temporarily while an investigation is ongoing, and we ask for privacy for all involved."