Indiana Woman Charged in Fatal Crash While Impaired
Tragic Accident Claims Life of Six-Year-Old Boy
An incident last November in Shelby County, Indiana, has led to the arrest of 43-year-old Khristal Grant, following charges linked to a tragic accident that resulted in the death of a six-year-old boy. The boy, identified as James Doniven Hodges, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by his grandparents when Grant’s Chevy Tahoe collided with them. Witnesses reported that Grant was driving erratically at a high speed while applying makeup.
Details of the Collision
The accident occurred on November 9, 2022, as Hodges’ family attempted to make a left turn in their Ford Explorer. Reports indicate that Grant’s Tahoe approached rapidly and struck their vehicle from behind, causing it to spin into oncoming traffic, where it was subsequently hit by another car. Witnesses traveling in a separate vehicle noted significant erratic behavior from Grant, including her apparent distraction while looking into a vanity mirror, leading to her rapid approach to the stopped Explorer.
The aftermath of the crash was devastating; while several individuals were taken to local hospitals for treatment, James Doniven Hodges was pronounced dead at the scene.
Charges and Impairment Evidence
Despite the severity of the accident, charges against Grant were not filed until May 9, 2023, and her arrest did not occur until later that month. Grant reportedly admitted to recent methamphetamine and marijuana use but denied having consumed any substances on the day of the crash. However, data retrieved from her vehicle indicated she was traveling at nearly 70 mph just moments before impact and did not apply brakes until half a second before the collision.
A drug test conducted post-accident revealed methamphetamine levels exceeding 50 ng/mL in Grant’s system. According to a forensic toxicologist, her driving behavior was consistent with impairment from meth.
Potential Sentencing and Upcoming Trial
Grant now faces significant legal consequences, including charges of operating a motor vehicle with a controlled substance and causing death while driving under the influence. If convicted, she could face a maximum of 12 years in prison. Her trial is set to commence on August 5, 2023.
The community mourns this tragic loss, and advocates for road safety emphasize the dangers of impaired driving. As the story develops, local authorities continue to stress the importance of safe driving practices at all times.
For ongoing updates on this case and other crime-related news, stay tuned to our coverage.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.