Lavonne Barber Obituary, – A fatal crash occurred in Fortville, according to officials from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department. The incident took place at the intersection of Ind. 234 and CR 50W on Friday at approximately 11:15 a.m. Due to the severity of the crash, the Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team (F.A.C. Team) was called to the scene by the deputies.
The crash involved two vehicles, a 2019 Ford Escape and a 2004 Chevy Aveo. The Chevy was driven by an 81-year-old woman named Lavonne Barber from Fortville, who unfortunately died at the scene. The Ford was driven by a female driver who was transported to Methodist Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Lavonne Barber’s family has been notified of her tragic passing. The driver of the Ford, identified as Melinda Newby from Centerville, has cooperated with the investigation and was also wearing a seatbelt.
According to officials, the Ford was traveling east on Ind. 234 towards Wilkinson, while the Chevy was heading north on CR 50W towards Fortville. A witness at the scene provided a statement to law enforcement. Based on the evidence gathered, it appears that the Chevy failed to come to a complete stop at the intersection before continuing northbound on CR 50W. The Ford had the right of way and did not have a stop sign.
Authorities have stated that drugs and alcohol do not seem to be contributing factors in the crash. The investigation is still ongoing, and the area was closed for approximately two hours while the Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team conducted their investigation. The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes the importance of wearing safety belts while in a vehicle and remaining attentive while driving.
