Two killed in southern Indiana when car hits semi head-on in no passing zone

DEARBORN COUNTY, Ind. (WANE) Two people died in a crash Sunday morning in southern Indiana. Police believe weather and alcohol may have been factors.

The crash took place at around 3:30 a.m. on U.S. 52 in Dearborn County according to a press release from Indiana State Police.

The initial investigation determined that a 2020 Honda Civic, being driven by Kelis Manuel, 22, of Fairfield, Ohio, was traveling westbound on U.S. 52, just west of State Road 46.  In a no passing zone, Manuel attempted to pass a pickup truck hauling a trailer.  Manuel’s vehicle collided head-on with a semi that was traveling eastbon US 52. 

The semi driver was taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  Manuel and an unidentified rear passenger in her vehicle were transported to Cincinnati area hospitals for treatment of life-threatening injuries. 

A front seat passenger in Manuel’s vehicle, identified as Kimora Manuel, age 21, Cincinnati, Ohio and a rear seat passenger, Le’Marea Holmes, 22, also from Cincinnati, both lost their lives in the crash.  They were both pronounced deceased on the scene by the Dearborn County Coroner’s Office.

Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash.  Toxicology tests are pending.  Heavy rain in the area at the time may also have been a contributing factor.