Robert William Leo Dunham, Jesse E. Brummett Jr. Obituary, Death: 2 killed in serious Franklin County car crash
Robert William Leo Dunham, Jesse E. Brummett Jr. Obituary, Death – Two people lost their lives in a violent car crash in Franklin County, Indiana, on Saturday evening, with authorities noting alcohol was discovered at the scene. According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched to the 27000 block of West Chapel Road, just south of Rushville, after reports of a vehicle crashing into a utility pole, a tree, and eventually a house.
The vehicle involved was a 2007 Chevrolet Impala, which had been traveling westbound on West Chapel Road. Investigators say that as the car crested a hill, it became airborne. Upon landing, the vehicle struck the pavement with such force that it caused damage to the road surface. From there, the car veered off to the north side of the road, before redirecting south and colliding with a utility pole.
Despite the impact with the pole, the car did not stop. It continued across a grassy area, struck a tree, then became airborne again. Ultimately, the Impala landed and crashed into a house located along West Chapel Road.
When emergency crews arrived at the crash site, both occupants of the vehicle were found dead. The driver was identified as 49-year-old Robert William Leo Dunham of Oldenburg, Indiana. His passenger was 51-year-old Jesse E. Brummett Jr. of Sunman, Indiana.
While authorities are awaiting toxicology reports to determine whether alcohol was a direct factor in the crash, investigators confirmed that alcohol containers were located at the scene. In a press release, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department noted that excessive speed appeared to be a major contributing factor to the deadly incident, based on the physical evidence and witness statements.
There was no indication of other vehicles being involved in the crash, and no injuries to occupants of the home the car struck have been reported.
The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement officials await further test results and continue to analyze the scene. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department emphasized the importance of safe driving practices, particularly the dangers of speeding and driving under the influence, which can lead to fatal consequences.
The crash left behind significant damage to the property and surrounding area, with the utility pole, tree, and home all sustaining visible impacts. First responders worked through the evening to clear the scene, assess damage, and begin reconstructing the series of events that led to the high-speed crash.
Local authorities expressed condolences to the families of both victims and encouraged community members to reflect on the serious risks posed by reckless driving. More information is expected to be released once toxicology results and final accident reconstruction reports are completed.
