CRAWFORD COUNTY — A driver from Marengo faces felony charges following a fatal single-vehicle crash early Saturday morning that left a passenger dead south of Leavenworth.
According to the Indiana State Police, emergency personnel responded to reports of a crash on East Wyandotte Avenue at approximately 12:34 a.m. on Saturday, August 8.
Investigators with the Indiana State Police and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office determined that 34-year-old Steven E. Spurling was driving a white 2020 Chevrolet Colorado northbound on East Wyandotte Avenue when he lost control of the vehicle. The truck traveled off the east side of the roadway and collided with a tree.
The passenger in the vehicle, identified as James Spurling, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Crawford County Coroner. Steven Spurling was not injured in the collision.
During the on-scene investigation, state troopers noted that Steven Spurling exhibited signs of impairment. He was taken to Harrison County Hospital for medical clearance and to undergo a mandatory chemical test.
Following the hospital evaluation and initial investigation, Steven Spurling was arrested and remanded to the Crawford County Jail, where he is currently being held on bond.
He faces preliminary charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing death, a Level 4 felony, and reckless driving, a Class C misdemeanor.
Authorities confirmed that next of kin have been notified and an autopsy will be scheduled for James Spurling.
The crash remains an active investigation led by ISP Trooper Elijah Mundy. Assisting at the scene were Trooper Kayla Denk-Mundy, Trooper Levi Hupp, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, and the Crawford County Coroner’s Office. No additional details have been released at this time.
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.
