Driver Arrested on Numerous Charges After Causing Serious Crash

The crash took place Sunday evening at the intersection of SR 48 and SR 129 in Ripley County.

Photo by Indiana State Police. 

(Ripley County, Ind.) – Charges have been filed against a driver that allegedly caused a serious crash.

Indiana State Police responded to the crash on Sunday evening at the intersection of State Road 48 and State Road 129.

The initial investigation shows that Justin Palmer, 25, of Milan, was traveling eastbound on SR 48 and entered SR 129 into the path of a southbound vehicle, driven by James Ratliff, 36, of Milan.

Ratliff’s vehicle collided with the driver’s side of Palmer’s vehicle in the intersection. The impact caused Ratliff’s vehicle to overturn.

Both drivers were transported to Margaret Mary Health with non-life threatening injuries. Megan Hountz, a passenger in Ratliff’s vehicle, became entrapped and was airlifted to UC Medical Center for treatment of serious injury. Four juveniles in Ratliff’s vehicle were transported to MMH with unknown injuries.

According to ISP, Palmer showed signs of being intoxicated during the crash investigation. He was arrested on charges of Operating While Being a Habitual Traffic Violator, Operating While Intoxicated Causing Serious Bodily Injury, and Operating While Intoxicated with a Prior Conviction.

Palmer has been incarcerated pending an initial appearance in court.

The crash remains under investigation.  

More from Local News

Events

Thomas is District 9 Officer of the Year

Indiana Conservation Officer Josh Thomas serves Jefferson County.

New Study Finds Ohio Below National Average for Distracted Driving

Data shows 2023 law continues to improve road safety.

Kentucky Snowfighting Crews Preparing for Weekend Winter Storm

Forecast winter storm could create snowy and potentially hazardous conditions across much of the commonwealth.

Local Sports Report - January 20, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Keith Whitley - Homecoming '63

Jamie O'Neal When I Think About Angels 15:18
Easton Corbin Girl Like You 15:15
Carly Pearce and Chris Stapleton We Don't Fight Anymore 15:08
Tim McGraw Diamond Rings and Old Barstools 15:05