Yesterday, shortly before 6:00am, Jasper Police Officers were dispatched to US 231 (Newton St.) in the area of Denny’s restaurant in reference to a vehicle vs. pedestrian crash. Upon officers arrival, treatment was being rendered to the female pedestrian that was struck by the vehicle. She had sustained numerous injuries, and upon EMS’ arrival, she was transported to Memorial Hospital. Based on the severity of the injuries to the female pedestrian, the driver of the vehicle, identified as the above Martha Hale, was also transported to Memorial for a chemical test. Prior to towing Ms. Hale’s vehicle, an inventory of the vehicle was conducted, during which marijuana and paraphernalia were located. A short time later, the female pedestrian passed away at Memorial due to her injuries. The chemical test on Hale revealed a presumptive positive for marijuana in her system. Hale was taken into custody on charges of OWI-Fatality (Level 4 Felony), OWI-Endangerment (A Misdemeanor), Possession of Marijuana (B Misdemeanor), and a Citation for Driving While Suspended and is being lodged in the Dubois County Security Center. After ensuring notification had been made to the female pedestrian’s family, we are now identifying the deceased as Stephanie K. Taylor (11-22, 1968) of Holland.
