Authorities have identified the victims of a tragic overnight crash on Interstate 65 that left three passengers dead and another child critically injured, according to the Indiana State Police.
The victims have been identified as Royce Sims, 9; Artavius Sims, 5; and Raniah Simpson, 19. A fourth child, 7-year-old Terrion, survived the crash but remains in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
Investigators said the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Friday, May 15, on southbound I-65 near the 257.2 mile marker, just south of Ridge Road in Hobart.
According to state police, a Ford Explorer driven by 31-year-old Renee Foster of Gary was traveling southbound when it allegedly struck the rear of a disabled semi-truck and trailer parked on the right shoulder due to mechanical issues. Troopers said the SUV was traveling at a high rate of speed at the time of impact, resulting in catastrophic damage.
Three of the four juvenile passengers inside the vehicle were killed in the violent collision. Authorities said one of the victims was ejected from the SUV during the crash. The surviving child was airlifted to the University of Chicago Medical Center for emergency treatment.
Foster sustained upper-body injuries and was transported to Franciscan Health Crown Point. The semi-truck driver was not injured.
Investigators said Foster reported she may have fallen asleep behind the wheel prior to the crash. Toxicology results are pending, as both drivers consented to blood testing.
Authorities have recommended multiple felony charges, including four counts of neglect of a dependent, reckless driving, driving while suspended, and child restraint violations. The case has been submitted to the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
Officials said Foster is not currently in custody while receiving medical treatment. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances behind the deadly crash.
