Driver arrested after fatal crash in Richmond

RICHMOND, Ind. — A driver was arrested after a fatal crash unfolded in Richmond Saturday night.

In a Facebook post, the Richmond Police Department reported that its officers responded to the intersection of Sim Hodgkin Parkway and Bridge Avenue to investigate a single-vehicle crash. When police arrived at the scene, they located a blue Honda Civic that had sustained significant damage.

Law enforcement also located 48-year-old Christopher Kennedy trapped inside the vehicle. The Richmond Fire Department extricated Kennedy, and medics transported him to Reid Health, where he later died.

After a preliminary investigation, RPD determined Kennedy was a passenger in the Civic when it was crashed. Police believe 27-year-old Billy Goodwin of Richmond was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash. Investigators reported that Goodwin likely fled the scene on foot after the crash.

RPD indicated that it tracked Goodwin to a residence after the crash and took him into custody without incident. Goodwin now faces the following preliminary charges:

• False informing — a Class A Misdemeanor
• Resisting law enforcement — a Class A Misdemeanor
• Leaving the scene of a fatal crash — a Level 5 Felony

RPD reported that it is still actively investigating the crash. Investigators are encouraging those with information on the crash to contact RPD at (765) 983-7247.

“This is a heartbreaking outcome for the Kennedy family, and our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time,” RPD Chief Kyle Weatherly wrote in a prepared statement “When someone chooses to flee instead of help, there must be accountability. Our department is committed to making sure that happens.”

Leaving the scene of a fatal crash is the most serious of the charges Goodwin faces. In Indiana, the maximum penalty for Level 5 Felonies like leaving the scene of a fatal crash is a 6-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $10,000.