RICHMOND WAYNE COUNTY: Serious Multi-Vehicle Crash On US Highway 40.
The Richmond Police Department’s First Shift Patrol Division were dispatched to the intersection of US Highway 40 and 16th Street following reports of a multi-vehicle crash. The crash involved three vehicles, with one overturned and occupants trapped inside.
The vehicles involved were identified as a 2012 Chevrolet Colorado, driven by Melinda Alexander; a 2020 Jeep Compass, driven by Denny Suzzett Marie; and an orange Honda Element, driven by Jaime Geovani SanJose, which was occupied by two juveniles.
Due to the severity of the crash and the nature of the injuries sustained, the Richmond Police Department’s SBI (Serious Bodily Injury) and Fatal Crash Investigation Team responded to the scene, as well as the department’s Drone Team, which was used for mapping and measurement purposes. The Indiana State Police SBI and Fatal Crash Investigation Unit also provided assistance.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the white Chevrolet Colorado was traveling westbound on US Highway 40 at an excessive speed, according to witness statements and video footage. The Chevrolet struck the orange Honda Element from behind near the intersection of US Highway 40 and 17th Street. The impact caused the Honda to spin and collide with the silver Jeep Compass traveling in the right lane. As a result, the Jeep veered off the road and struck a building at 1608 US Highway 40 E, while the Honda overturned onto its driver’s side in the roadway. The Chevrolet then spun and struck a building at 1625 US Highway 40 E.
Preliminary indications show that the driver of the Chevrolet Colorado, Melinda Alexander, was possibly intoxicated at the time of the crash. The investigation will be forwarded to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office for review and determination of charges.
All drivers and occupants were transported to Reid Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
The investigation remains ongoing.
