Indianapolis, IN – October 13th, 2017 just after 12:00 p.m., emergency crews were called to the scene of a crash with injuries on I-465 near Allisonville Road. Seven year old Zoe Martin suffered severe injuries as a result of this crash and succumbed to those injuries at Riley Hospital seven days later.
Investigation into the crash determined a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 28 year old Robert Kearney II of Indianapolis, was driving at a high rate of speed and struck the rear end of a Ford Explorer driven by Elbert Martin. It is believed Kearney was driving approximately 75 mph when he struck the rear of the Explorer which was traveling approximately 54 mph. The force of the impact caused the Explorer to spin sideways and strike a third vehicle. The collision caused traumatic injuries to Zoe Martin who was a backseat passenger in the Ford Explorer.
After a lengthy investigation including interviewing witnesses, reconstructing the crash and working with prosecutors, investigators believe Robert Kearney was driving recklessly just before the collision and he allegedly continued driving after the crash in an attempt flee. His truck became disabled before he could get too far. Police have reason to believe he offered a controlled substance to the tow truck driver as payment for towing his truck. At the time of the crash Kearney was driving on a suspended license. As a result of the investigation, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office has filed the following criminal charges against him.
- Reckless Homicide (Level 5 Felony)
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Death (Level 6 Felony)
- Possession of and Dealing in a Substance Represented to be a Controlled Substance (Level 6 Felony)
Kearney was arrested by detectives January 31st, 2018 at his residence. He was also found to be wanted on an outstanding warrant out of Johnson County for Theft.
All suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
