Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash on State Road 121

This is the 23rd fatal accident in Franklin County since January 2020.

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(Franklin County, Ind.) - Franklin County Sheriff's deputies were called to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of State 121 and Old U.S. Highway 52. 

The accident occurred on Saturday around 2:44 p.m.

The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2004 Honda CRV, driven by Samantha R. Forschbach, was pulling onto State Road 121 from Old U.S. Highway 52 when it entered the path of a southbound 2008 Honda motorcycle operated by Bonnie R. Lapham, age 69. The motorcycle collided with the driver’s side of the CRV.

Lapham, who was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Franklin County Coroner’s Office. Forschbach was not reported to be injured.

The crash remains under investigation. 

This marks the 23rd fatal traffic crash in Franklin County since January 2020, resulting in a total of 29 deaths on roadways within Franklin County. According to Indiana State Crash Report data, these crashes have been attributed to a multitude of factors, including driving left of center, unsafe speed, failure to yield, alcohol and/or drug impairment, distracted or inattentive driving, following too closely, and animals in the roadway.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department urges all motorists to speak with their loved ones about the importance of safe driving habits and remaining alert behind the wheel. Every decision made while operating a vehicle can make the difference between life and death.