WICHITA, Kan. — The Wichita community is reeling after a devastating crash late Saturday night claimed the lives of two women and led to the arrest of an 80-year-old Augusta woman on homicide charges.
According to the Wichita Police Department, officers responded to the intersection of Central and Webb Road just before 9:40 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, following reports of a three-vehicle collision. Investigators say a black Chevrolet truck, driven by the 80-year-old woman, was traveling east on Central when it struck two vehicles — a white BMW and a gray Jeep — that were moving south through the intersection on Webb.
The impact of the crash proved catastrophic for those inside the BMW. The driver, 42-year-old Lashea Bell of Wichita, was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts. Her passenger, 25-year-old Aniah Bell, also of Wichita, was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Tragically, she later died from her injuries.
The driver of the Jeep, a 41-year-old man, was treated for minor injuries and released. The suspect driver of the Chevrolet was transported to the hospital as well, where she was kept under police supervision. After being medically cleared, she was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on two counts of second-degree homicide.
Authorities say speed and alcohol are believed to have played a role in the crash, though the investigation is ongoing. Police noted that additional evidence will be reviewed and the case will be handed over to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for the filing of formal charges.
This tragedy has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving, while also raising serious concerns about road safety and accountability. The Wichita Police Department has asked anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has additional information to come forward as investigators continue to piece together the moments leading up to the deadly crash.
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