BLOOMINGTON – A multi-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a 74-year-old woman and seriously injured a child has resulted in several felony charges against a Bloomington man.
The Monroe County Major Crash Investigation Team released an update Sunday confirming that James Caudell, 48, was taken into custody upon his discharge from the hospital on March 1.
The Monroe County Major Crash Investigation Team provided an update on the fatal crash that occurred on February 25th near South Rockport Road and West Stansifer Court.
Preliminary investigation indicates a northbound Subaru, driven by Caudell, crossed left of center into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a Kia. A third vehicle, a Toyota, subsequently became involved in the crash after striking vehicle debris.
The driver of the Kia has been identified as Theadora Wellman, 74, of Bloomington. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A 7-year-old passenger in the Caudell’s Subaru sustained serious injuries and was flown to Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis for treatment, but has since been discharged.
The driver of the Toyota was transported to the hospital with minor injuries and was treated and released the night of the crash.
James Caudell was initially transported to the hospital for medical treatment. Caudell consented to a chemical test, and toxicology results are still pending.
Upon his discharge from the hospital on March 1, Caudell was taken into custody by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and transported to the Monroe County Jail on preliminary charges of reckless homicide, operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing death, OWI causing serious bodily injury, and neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
