Paula McAlister Obituary, Death – Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a deadly off-road vehicle (ORV) crash that took place Saturday night near Hanover. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. in the 5200 block of South River Bottom Road.
According to authorities, 75-year-old Charles Howell was driving the ORV with three passengers when the vehicle veered off the road. This caused the ORV to roll multiple times down a hill, resulting in serious consequences for everyone on board.
Tragically, 56-year-old Paula McAlister, a Madison resident, was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy has been scheduled to officially determine her cause of death.
Charles Howell and 74-year-old Jacquelyn Howell, also from Hanover, were both seriously injured in the crash. Due to the extent of their injuries, they were flown by air ambulance to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment.
Another passenger, 55-year-old Donald McAlister of Madison, sustained minor injuries and was transported to Norton King’s Daughters Health for medical attention.
Investigators noted that none of the four occupants were wearing seatbelts or helmets at the time of the crash, safety measures that could have potentially lessened the severity of the injuries or prevented the fatality.
While alcohol is not currently suspected to have played a role in the crash, authorities have requested a toxicology test as part of the standard investigation procedure.
The incident remains under active investigation as officers work to determine exactly what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway and roll down the embankment.
Multiple agencies responded to the scene and assisted with emergency efforts, including the Hanover Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Norton King’s Daughters’ Health Emergency Medical Services, and Air Methods Kentucky 11.
Officials are using this tragic event as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions when operating off-road vehicles. Wearing seatbelts and helmets, even during short or recreational rides, can be critical to preventing injuries or fatalities in the event of an accident.
Further details may be released as the investigation progresses and the results of the autopsy and toxicology tests become available.