MARION COUNTY – An Indiana State Police trooper died in a tragic crash on Wednesday evening.
The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Ronald Reagan Parkway near Interstate 70. Police attempted a traffic stop after spotting a stolen car in Indianapolis, leading to a pursuit. While deploying stop sticks to end the chase, 5-year veteran Trooper Aaron Smith was struck by the suspect’s vehicle. Both Smith and the suspect crashed. Smith was rushed to Eskenazi Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect’s occupants were taken to local hospitals. The community mourns the loss of a dedicated officer.