Grandmother & Child Struck by Vehicle Leads to OWI Arrest

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On Saturday, June 21, 2025, at approximately 12:06 p.m., emergency responders from the Washington County Ambulance Service, Salem Fire Department, Salem Police Department, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to the intersection of E. Hackberry Street and Anson Street in response to a pedestrian-involved vehicle accident.

Photo by Nathaniel Smith.

Upon arrival, first responders discovered that a sport utility vehicle (SUV) had struck two pedestrians — a 5-year-old child, Rudraksh Patel, and his grandmother Sushilaben Patel. EMS and fire personnel provided immediate emergency care at the scene. Both victims were subsequently airlifted to a regional trauma hospital for further treatment due to the severity of their injuries. Their current condition is unknown at this time, although a representative of the family shared that among his injuries, Rudraksh suffered a cracked skull.

Articles of clothing belonging to the victims (Photo by Nathaniel Smith).

"I think it might be the people who own the (Citgo/Valero) gas station," said Sheriff Brent Miller. "They flew both of them out. I think the little boy got flown to Kosair's, and they were flying the lady out to UofL."

The driver of the SUV was identified as Gary Young, 62, of Salem, Indiana. Young was transported to a local hospital for chemical testing. Following the test, which revealed the presence of multiple narcotic substances, he was placed under arrest.

Gary Young

According to investigating officer Michael Thacker, Gary Young is facing the following charges:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) – Causing Serious Bodily Injury (Level 5 Felony)

• OWI with a Controlled Substance – Causing Serious Bodily Injury (Level 5 Felony)

• OWI – Endangerment (Class A Misdemeanor)

• Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony)

• Possession of Cocaine or a Narcotic Drug (Level 6 Felony)

This is an active investigation. No further information is being released at this time. All subjects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

Photos taken by Nathaniel Smith.