(Jefferson County, IN) – Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a fatal off-road vehicle (ORV) accident that occurred Saturday night in the Hanover area.
It was around 9:30 p.m. when responders were dispatched to the 5200 block of South River Bottom Road.
Upon arrival, it was determined that 75-year-old Charles Howell was operating the ORV with three passengers when they ran off the road, which caused the vehicle to roll multiple times down a hill.
Fifty-six-year-old Paula McAlister of Madison was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the cause of death.
Howell and 74-year-old Jacquelyn Howell, also from Hanover, were flown to University of Louisville Hospital in serious condition.
Fifty-five-year-old Donald McAlister of Madison was taken to Norton King’s Daughters Health with minor injuries.
Conservation officers say none of the ORV’s occupants were wearing a seatbelt or helmet.
The accident is under investigation. Alcohol is not suspected of contributing to the accident, but a toxicology test has been requested.
Indiana Conservation Officers were assisted by the Hanover Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Norton King’s Daughters’ Health Emergency Medical Services, and Air Methods Kentucky 11.
