Fatal Crash in Plainfield, Indiana Claims Lives of Two Children After Police Pursuit

A tragic collision at the intersection of U.S. 40 and Ronald Reagan Parkway in Plainfield, Indiana on Wednesday resulted in the death of 2-month-old Iris Moore and left her 3-year-old brother Ares Vawter with severe burns. The incident occurred when a vehicle driven by S'Doni Pettis, who was allegedly fleeing from an Avon police officer, crashed into a car carrying Shadow Moore and his two children. The impact caused Moore's vehicle to flip multiple times and burst into flames. Emergency responders, along with police and bystanders, worked desperately to rescue the vehicle's occupants. While Shadow Moore sustained serious injuries including broken ribs, a fractured spine, and a lacerated spleen, he was expected to be discharged the following day. Tragically, infant Iris Moore did not survive the crash, while her brother Ares was rushed to Riley Hospital for Children with extensive burns.

Location and Infrastructure - The intersection of U.S. 40 (also known as Washington Street) and Ronald Reagan Parkway is a major junction in Plainfield, a rapidly growing suburb west of Indianapolis. This heavily trafficked intersection serves as a crucial connection point between residential areas and the commercial corridor along U.S. 40, as well as providing access to nearby Indianapolis International Airport. The intersection is controlled by traffic signals and features multiple lanes in each direction, with dedicated turn lanes. The area experiences significant traffic during peak hours due to its proximity to numerous retail establishments, industrial parks, and residential developments.

Legal Rights and Considerations - Under Indiana law, victims of motor vehicle accidents caused by negligent or reckless driving may be entitled to pursue compensation through multiple channels. The state's two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims applies to such cases. Victims may seek damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and wrongful death. Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning victims can recover damages as long as they are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. Given the circumstances involving a police pursuit, multiple parties may bear liability, requiring careful examination of governmental immunity statutes and their exceptions. Insurance claims may involve both personal injury protection coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Related Resources:

• Plainfield Police Department: (317) 839-8700
• Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health: (317) 944-5000
• Indiana State Police Crash Reports: www.in.gov/isp(link is external)
• Hendricks County Victim Assistance Program: (317) 745-9283
• Indiana Criminal Justice Institute - Traffic Safety Division
• Indiana State Department of Insurance Consumer Services
• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Indiana Chapter