CASS COUNTY, Ind. – A late-night crash in Cass County on Friday left an 11-year-old child seriously injured and led to the arrest of a 35-year-old Kentucky man on multiple charges, including operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Crash Overview
According to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 11:40 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 24 and County Road 325 East. A deputy on patrol witnessed the collision firsthand and immediately called for additional emergency responders.
Investigators reported that the driver of a 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser was attempting to turn off eastbound U.S. 24 onto County Road 325 East when the vehicle entered the path of an oncoming 2024 Chevrolet Silverado. The Silverado struck the Cruiser with significant force.
High-Speed Impact
Radar technology used by the nearby deputy indicated that the Silverado was traveling at 85 mph, far above the posted limit, just moments before the crash. The force of the impact severely damaged both vehicles and trapped the Cruiser’s occupants inside.
Firefighters worked to extricate the adult driver and the 11-year-old passenger from the PT Cruiser. Both were airlifted to Indianapolis hospitals with what authorities described as serious injuries.
As reported, the driver of the Silverado was transported via ambulance to Parkview Hospital in Logansport, and later transferred to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne due to the severity of his injuries.
Arrest and Charges
Once released from the hospital, the Silverado’s driver — identified as Michael Klish of Louisville, Kentucky — was incarcerated at the Cass County Detention Center. He now faces several charges:
- Causing injuries by operating a vehicle while intoxicated (Level 5 Felony)
- Reckless driving (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Dealing marijuana (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Possession of marijuana (Class A Misdemeanor)
The Level 5 Felony is the most serious of the charges and carries a potential penalty of up to six years in prison and a fine of $10,000 under Indiana law.
The Dangers of Drunk and Drugged Driving
This incident is a sobering reminder of the risks posed by impaired driving. When substances and excessive speed are combined, the consequences can be devastating—especially when young passengers are involved.
Children are particularly vulnerable in crashes, and incidents like this highlight the importance of defensive driving and staying sober behind the wheel.
Community Response and Prevention Efforts
Local authorities continue to emphasize DUI enforcement and drug-related crime prevention. Public education campaigns, roadside checkpoints, and harsher penalties aim to reduce such preventable incidents on Indiana roads.
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