Indianapolis, IN – A tragic crash on July 26 claimed the life of Nakeya Nicole Williams, 46, after the Mazda 6 she was a passenger in struck a tree head-on on the northeast side of Indianapolis. The driver, identified as Raymond Smiley of Indianapolis, is now facing multiple charges after police determined he was intoxicated at the time of the crash.
Charges Filed Against Driver
On Wednesday, Smiley was officially charged with:
- Causing death when operating a vehicle while intoxicated (Level 4 felony)
- Driving while suspended resulting in death (Level 5 felony)
- Leaving the scene of an accident (misdemeanor)
Authorities confirmed that Smiley’s driver’s license was already suspended due to a prior conviction.
Crash Details and Driver’s Claims
The fatal crash occurred around 10 p.m. near the intersection of Scarborough Boulevard East Drive and Fairwood Drive. According to court documents, Smiley told officers that he had been fleeing another vehicle that was “shooting at him” and claimed this was the reason he lost control and slammed into the tree at high speed.
However, investigators said that no bullet holes were found in the Mazda as per reports from Fox59.
Attempt to Avoid Police Testing
Police say Smiley left the crash scene before officers could obtain a blood draw. Witnesses told investigators that Smiley’s brother arrived shortly after the crash, and the two men left together. When contacted by police, Smiley claimed he was on his way to the hospital.
Meanwhile, Williams was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead at 10:50 p.m.
Nearly two hours after the crash, officers located Smiley at IU Methodist Hospital, where a blood draw revealed a blood alcohol content of 0.097%, above the legal limit.
Witness Accounts of Reckless Driving
Investigators interviewed several witnesses who described Smiley’s dangerous driving prior to the crash. One witness said Smiley’s Mazda rear-ended her vehicle in a hit-and-run. She followed him in an attempt to record his license plate before he crashed into the tree.
Another witness described seeing two speeding vehicles, including Smiley’s Mazda, followed by a slower car in pursuit. This witness also provided first aid at the crash site before first responders arrived, describing Smiley as “dazed, confused, drowsy, and uncoordinated.”
When asked about possible gunfire, the same witness said he heard what could have been a firework or a gunshot about 10 to 15 minutes before seeing the speeding cars, but not at the time of the crash.
Broader Concerns About Drunk Driving
This case highlights the dangerous consequences of impaired driving, which continues to claim thousands of lives nationwide each year. Authorities stress that alcohol reduces coordination, slows reaction time, and leads to fatal crashes like the one that claimed Williams’ life.
Law enforcement agencies in Indiana continue to urge drivers to avoid drinking and driving and to seek alternatives such as ride-sharing services, designated drivers, or public transportation.
Sheriff’s and Community Efforts
Local authorities remain committed to reducing fatalities caused by impaired drivers. Community programs, awareness campaigns, and increased DUI checkpoints are among the tools being used to prevent future tragedies.
What do you think about this case and the ongoing fight against drunk driving? Should Indiana increase penalties for repeat offenders? Share your views in the comments below.
