[Sherise Parrish] dies in fatal Gary, Indiana car crash
Fatal Gary, Indiana car crash death of Sherise Parrish
The Lake County Coroner’s office in Crown Point officially identified the five individuals who lost their lives in the recent collision between a motor vehicle and a train. The victims included two young women, Sherise Parrish, aged 20, and Latianna King, also 20, along with three men, De’Mario Craig, 24, Maurice Parrish, 20, and Byron Towns, 21. These five people were pronounced deceased after the incident, with authorities confirming their passing occurred shortly after the event.
According to the preliminary findings from the coroner’s examination, all fatalities are classified as accidental, resulting from multiple impacts. Toxicology tests are still pending to rule out any other contributing factors. The investigation continues to determine the exact circumstances leading to the crash.
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene at approximately 10:09 p.m., following reports of a train-related accident at the intersection involving Utah Street and U.S. Route 20. Upon arrival, responders found five occupants from a badly wrecked car who had been thrown from the vehicle during the collision. Fortunately, no one on the South Shore Line train was injured.
In response to this tragic event, Gary Mayor Eddie Melton expressed deep condolences to the families of those who died. He emphasized the importance of adhering to railroad safety guidelines, reminding the public to never attempt to bypass warning systems or proceed when signals indicate caution. Similarly, the South Shore Line President, Michael Noland, stressed that such risks are not worth taking, urging patience and vigilance at all crossings.
A joint investigation by the Gary Police Department and the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District is underway to explore the cause of the accident. The city is collaborating with various agencies to review safety protocols and prevent similar incidents in the future.
