NORTH VERNON, Ind. – Jennings County Sheriff’s Office (JCSLO) deputies were dispatched to the area of Brush Creek Elementary School on U.S. 50E about a two-vehicle accident Monday at around 9:10 p.m.
The crash involved a car and a pickup truck. Exact details of the collision are pending; however, alcohol is believed to be a factor.
The driver of the car, Anthony Lucas, 44, of North Vernon, sustained fatal injuries in the collision. The pickup’s driver, James Pittman, 41, of North Vernon, supposedly displayed signs of intoxication and submitted to a toxicology test. Those results are pending.
Pittman was arrested on the preliminary charge of Operating While Intoxicated-causing death (Level 4 Felony).
Eastbound lanes of U.S. 50 were closed for 4.5 hours for crash reconstruction and cleanup.
“This tragedy is a reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving and failing to wear seatbelts. We urge everyone to make responsible decisions and ensure our roads remain safe,” said Chief Deputy Cody Low.
