Darken P. Jeske dies in fatal Elwood hit-and-run crash

Darken P. Jeske dies in fatal Elwood hit-and-run crash

Fatal Elwood hit-and-run crash death of Darken P. Jeske – Obituary

Sixteen-year-old Darken P. Jeske of Elwood was killed late Saturday night after being struck in a hit-and-run crash near the intersection of Ninth and Main streets, according to the Madison County Sheriff’s Department.

Authorities say Jeske was running when a 2017 Ram 1500 pickup, driven by a 77-year-old man from Frankfort, hit him just before midnight and fled the scene. A witness followed the truck and police later apprehended the driver in Windfall.

Jeske was rushed to St. Vincent Mercy Hospital in Elwood, where he was pronounced dead.

Jeske, a freshman at Tipton High School and former Elwood student, was remembered by Elwood Community School Corporation and his wrestling coach, Jeremiah Nunemacher, as a kind, dedicated, and eager learner who had recently joined the wrestling team.

The driver consented to toxicology testing, and results are pending. Charges are expected following formal investigation. The Madison County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to investigate with assistance from local agencies.