Martinsville, IN (April 26, 2026) – A late-night crash on Interstate 69 left one person dead and three others hurt on Saturday, April 25. The collision happened around 9:30 p.m. on the southbound side of I-69, just south of Martinsville.
According to early reports, the crash involved a 2003 Buick LeSabre and a 2026 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck. The Buick was stopped in the roadway near the median and was not on the emergency shoulder. Four people were outside the vehicle, while one person remained inside when the pickup truck struck it.
Emergency units responded to the scene and treated multiple victims. Three people were flown by helicopter to area hospitals, including IU Health Methodist and Ascension St. Vincent. One of those injured, identified as 20-year-old Darius Williams of Indianapolis, later died from his injuries.
The driver of the Chevrolet pickup truck, a 26-year-old woman from Morgantown, was taken by ambulance to IU Health Bloomington Hospital. Traffic in both directions of I-69 was shut down for several hours as crews worked at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why Stopped Vehicles on Highways Can Be Especially Dangerous
Vehicles that stop in active highway lanes face a high risk of being struck by oncoming traffic. High speeds and limited reaction time make it difficult for drivers to avoid unexpected obstacles, especially at night or in low visibility.
When a car becomes disabled, moving it completely off the roadway can reduce the chance of a crash. Standing outside a vehicle on a busy highway also increases exposure to passing traffic, which can be unpredictable.
Lighting conditions, road design, and driver awareness all affect how quickly hazards are noticed. Even with headlights, a stopped vehicle may not be visible soon enough for drivers to react safely. Keeping emergency lights on and maintaining distance from traffic lanes can help lower the risk in these situations.
