Oxygen Insider Exclusive!

Create a free profile to get unlimited access to exclusive videos, breaking news, sweepstakes, and more!

Sign Up for Free to View
Crime News Breaking News

16-Year-Old Teen Killed In Sledding Accident, Hit By Intoxicated Driver

A teen has died after being hit on a sled by a drunk driver.

By Sowmya Krishnamurthy

Tragedy struck a teen who died following a crash between her sled and an intoxicated driver. According to Indy Star, 16-year-old Davis Collier was hit by the car after she slid on the roadway in Newburgh, Indiana. The driver, 20-year-old Galina Witte, was arrested on the preliminary charge of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (with a prior conviction) and operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated endangering others. 

Collier was pronounced dead at the scene on Saturday night.

Collier was a student at Castle High School. The school shared its condolences on social media. "Our family is grieving the loss of Davis Collier. The auditorium at CHS will be open at 2:00 today so students can gather to grieve together and talk with counselors," tweeted the principal. "Castle High School will be open today from 2-4 for any student or community member that needs to talk. I will be there along with the crisis team to help comfort those dealing with the shocking tragedy of the death of Castle Junior Davis Collier, who was killed in a sledding accident at the Old Lock and Dam last night. Prayers appreciated," added Ann Chumley Ulrey on Facebook, who appears to work at the school.

This is not Witte's first arrest for intoxicated driving. In January, she was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person. She was 19 at the time and pled guilty to the Class A Misdemeanor. In October, 2017, she was sentenced to one year at the Warrick County Sercurity Center and then placed on probation. As part of her sentence, she was required to attend a victim impact session, which showcases how impaired driving affects victims. She was also expected to follow all rules of the Substance Abuse Program. 

According to the Newburgh Police Department, this investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed. As a result of the incident, the Newburgh Town Council has closed the French Island Trail to traffic between Westervelt Drive and State Street for added safety. It's not known when this area will be reopened.

[Photo: Twitter]

Read more about: