Fatal crash in Muncie under investigation

MUNCIE – Detectives with the Indiana State Police are investigating a crash in Muncie that killed one person and critically injured another during a police pursuit.

On January 23, 2024, around 12:38 p.m., Muncie Police Chief Nathan Sloan requested the assistance of the Indiana State Police Reconstruction Team after a crash occurred at the intersection of Main and Mulberry Streets in Muncie.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a Ford Escape, driven by Olivia L. Larue, 39, of Munice, was westbound on Main Street at a high rate of speed. 

The Ford Escape ran a red light at the intersection and collided with a white 2014 Acura northbound on Mulberry Street.  The driver of the Acura was identified as Acacia Hammond, 27, of Muncie.  After the initial impact, The Acura collided with a nearby handrail and rolled onto its roof. 

Hammond was transported to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. 

A passenger in the Acura, later identified as Javonta Jones, 30, of Muncie, was pronounced dead at the scene by Delaware County Coroner Gavin Greene. 

After the collision, a short standoff occurred between police officers and Larue.  Larue eventually surrendered to the police. 

Larue was transported to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital for medical treatment.  Larue was released from the hospital and placed into custody by Muncie Police on outstanding warrants. 

An unidentified male fled from the scene and is currently being sought by the Muncie Police Department. 

This investigation is active and still ongoing.  Once investigators complete the investigation, the case will be presented to the Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office for review.