Motorcycle crash claims life of one, injures another

The following is a press release from the Washington County Sheriff's Department.

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, at approximately 5:00 pm, members of emergency services were dispatched to the area of 8459 E. Blue River Road in reference to a motorcycle crash.

Evidence and statements gathered at the scene indicate that Jason Smith, age 45 of Corydon, Indiana was traveling eastbound on Blue River Road, when a deer jumped out of the ditch. Smith stated he applied his brakes to avoid the deer, but the deer struck the front of the motorcycle.

Smith said he tried to keep the motorcycle from flipping over but was unable to. Smith said the motorcycle flipped over and he and his passenger were ejected. The passenger was identified as Brooke McKinley, age 41 of Sellersburg, Indiana. Despite life saving measures, McKinley was pronounced deceased on scene by the Washington County Ambulance Service.

Smith was transported to St. Vincent Hospital of Salem, Indiana for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. Neither the driver nor the passenger were wearing helmets.

Captain Joseph Keltner is the lead investigator and was assisted by Deputy Ryan Ater, members of the Indiana State Police, Washington County Ambulance Service, Pierce/Polk Volunteer Fire Department, Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department and the Washington County Coroner’s Office.