Amanda Wertman Obituary, PIKE COUNTY, Ind. — Amanda Wertman, 41, of Winslow, Indiana, and her 8-year-old daughter have died following a fatal head-on crash in Pike County Saturday evening during a vehicle pursuit.
According to the Indiana State Police, the incident began at approximately 7:42 p.m. when a Pike County Sheriff’s Department deputy responded to an active domestic violence call at the Country Junction gas station near State Road 64 and State Road 61. A red Toyota Camry believed to be connected to the call subsequently left the gas station.
Authorities reported that the Camry forced another motorist off the roadway while traveling eastbound on State Road 64. The deputy later observed the vehicle fail to stop at a flashing red signal at the intersection of State Road 61 and State Road 64.
Investigators reported that when the deputy approached the Camry, the vehicle crossed into the deputy’s lane and attempted to strike the patrol vehicle. The deputy avoided the collision, turned around and initiated a pursuit.
A short time later, near County Road 900 East, the Camry crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a Toyota Sienna being driven by Wertman. Amanda and the driver of the Camry were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Four juveniles were traveling with Amanda in the Toyota Sienna. Her 8-year-old daughter was later pronounced deceased at a Louisville, Kentucky, hospital. Three other juveniles were transported to area hospitals and were expected to recover.
Amanda’s death leaves behind a family and community grieving the loss of a mother, daughter, friend and loved one. For those who knew her, her life will be remembered beyond the circumstances of the crash and through the relationships and memories she shared with the people around her.
The loss of her young daughter has added another profound dimension to the tragedy. At just 8 years old, she had much of childhood still ahead of her. Her family and loved ones are now left to hold onto the memories of her young life and the time they were able to share with her.
The Indiana State Police Crash Reconstruction Team continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. As the investigation remains ongoing, condolences go to Amanda Wertman’s family, her daughter’s loved ones, the surviving children, their extended family, friends and everyone affected by the devastating loss. May Amanda and her daughter be remembered for the lives they lived and the love they shared, and may their memories remain a lasting source of comfort to those who mourn them.
