*Update: Mug photo of Leslie Miller Attached
Indianapolis, IN - Today, with an arrest warrant issued by the Marion County Court, detectives from the Indiana State Police arrested 26 year old Mr. Leslie Miller of Indianapolis for leaving the scene of a fatal crash. Investigators believe Miller is responsible for the November 29th, 2016 crash on I-465 near I-65 that claimed the life of Jeffrey Smith of Rushville. If convicted Miller could face 1-6 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
This was a complex investigation requiring corroboration between police and the public to bring justice to the victim's family. Within days of the crash, investigators were able to identify Miller as a person of interest thanks to tips from the public and the vigilance of an Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Officer who recognized a vehicle having damage consistent with the crash. Detectives would also like to thank local media for their expedited release of pertinent information and Crime Stoppers for taking the public tips.
The warrant was issued this afternoon and Miller was taken into custody without incident at his home.
All suspects are are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
*****ORIGINAL RELEASE BELOW******
Pedestrian on I-465 Killed by Hit and Run Driver
Indianapolis, IN- A hit and run crash this morning on I-465 just after rush hour has claimed the life of a Rushville, IN man.
This morning at approximately 8:15 a.m. Indiana State troopers were notified of a personal injury crash on I-465 EB at the .08 mm (approximately one half mile west of I-65 SB).
Preliminary crash investigation and witness statements revealed that a crane being operated by Jeffrey A. Smith, 53, of Rushville IN, had mechanical issues and was parked on the right shoulder emergency berm of I-465 EB at the .08mm.The drivers’ side of the crane, or left side, was seven feet off of the right lane of I-465 with the emergency flashers activated. A mechanic from R.H. Marlin Inc., the owner of the crane, had arrived in a separate vehicle and was under the crane making repairs. Mr. Smith was standing on the emergency berm between the crane and the right lane of I-465.
According to witness accounts, a red or maroon Ford pickup truck went off the right side of I-465 onto the emergency berm and struck Mr. Smith with the front right of the vehicle. The pickup did not stop and continued EB on I-465. It is unknown at this time why the driver did not stop. The pickup should have extensive front right side damage. Mr. Smith was pronounced deceased at the scene. The mechanic was not injured.
Indiana State Police crash Reconstructionist and the Marion County Coroner’s office continue with the investigation. An autopsy will be performed on Wednesday.
Anyone with information regarding this crash is encouraged to contact crime stoppers at 317-262-TIPS (8477). You can remain anonymous.
Investigating Officers: Trooper Taylor McCluskey, Master Trooper Shana Kennedy, Sergeant Dave Henson, Lieutenant Jeff Payne, Sergeant Jason Miller, F/Sgt. Richard Myers, Detective Harris Smith and Detective Josh Graves
Assisting Agencies: Hoosier Helper, Indianapolis Fire Department, Marion County Coroner’s Office
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