Lyford, IN – Drivers along US 41 south of Lyford experienced a significant police presence Saturday evening after deputies say a motorist allegedly fled a crash scene and ran into a nearby field, prompting a multi-agency search that lasted more than an hour.
According to the Parke County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were assisting with a motor vehicle accident around 7:11 p.m. when a driver reportedly ignored officers directing traffic and sped away southbound on US 41. Authorities say the vehicle left the roadway near County Road 940 South, drove into a field and was abandoned moments later.
Deputies reported that the male driver fled on foot, prompting a search involving Parke County units and assisting agencies. Around 8:49 p.m., the sheriff’s office drone team—using thermal imaging—located the suspect lying in a drainage ditch. Deputies moved in and took him into custody without further incident.
Police identified the suspect as Charles Keller Jr., 44, of Mecca. According to investigators, Keller was allegedly in possession of a firearm, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia at the time of his arrest. He faces charges including Resisting Law Enforcement, Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Paraphernalia. Deputies said he is being held with no bond.
A female passenger who was inside the vehicle at the time of the incident was interviewed and released from the scene.
Assisting agencies included the Indiana State Police, Clinton Police Department and Rockville Police Department.
