HENDRICKS CO. – The Indiana State Police is mourning the loss of one of its own tonight as a result of a vehicle crash incident that occurred Wednesday afternoon on Ronald Reagan Parkway, north of I-70.
The crash claimed the life of Trooper Aaron N. Smith, 33, from Franklin, who served with the Indiana State Police for nearly five years.
“He was one of those guys that stood out,” ISP Superintendent Doug Carter said. “Not to be cliche but he was a shining star for the Indiana State Police.”
“Janet and I offer our deepest condolences to the wife, family, and close friends of Trooper Aaron Smith,” said Governor Eric Holcomb. “Trooper Smith lived and died a hero. His everlasting inspiration is a painful reminder of what the best among us sacrifice every day when they leave the house. I encourage every Hoosier so inclined to right now stop and shower Trooper Smith’s bride with prayer and be there for his fellow law enforcement members so shaken by this heartbreaking loss.”
Smith was a native of Whiteland and a 2008 graduate of Whiteland High School. He joined the Army National Guard in 2011 and joined ISP in 2018. He previously worked in insurance and construction. He is survived by his wife.
The preliminary investigation by the Indiana State Police indicates that at approximately 8:40 p.m. Wednesday, Trooper Smith was assisting other troopers on Ronald Reagan Parkway with a pursuit of a stolen vehicle.
Trooper Smith attempted to de-escalate that vehicle pursuit by deploying stop sticks. Trooper Smith was struck by the suspect vehicle and critically injured. Emergency medical care was rendered at the scene, and he was rushed to Eskenazi Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
“This is a tremendously sad day for the entire Indiana State Police family. We will band together as we always do in support of Trooper Smith’s family, friends, and co-workers”, said Superintendent Carter.
The suspect driver involved in this incident, along with an adult and juvenile passenger were all transported to Indianapolis hospitals for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Superintendent Carter said that the criminal investigation has become quite complex. He also added that there is a video of the incident that will be used to investigate. All findings will be turned over to the Hendricks County Prosecutor for review and determination of any further charges that may be filed.
The Indiana State Police was assisted at the scene by the Plainfield Police Department, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Plainfield Fire Department, and Troopers from neighboring Indiana State Police Putnamville Post.
No additional information is available for release at this time.
