Motorcycle Crash Near Little York Leaves One Dead, One Seriously Injured

A PRESS RELEASE BY THE WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT

On Thursday, August 28, 2025, at approximately 8:13 pm, members of emergency services were dispatched to North State Road 39 near the intersection of State Road 256 for a personal injury accident.

Upon arrival, deputies observed a black 2019 Harley Davidson off the West side of North State Road 39.

The driver of the motorcycle was identified as David Anthony Michael Stitzel, age 34 of Seymour, Indiana.

The passenger of the motorcycle was identified as Jessica Nicole Sue Pelley, age 31, of Seymour, Indiana.

While investigating the scene of the accident, evidence and witness statements indicated that Stitzel was traveling South on State Road 39, when the motorcycle traveled off the West side of the roadway striking the guardrail.

Stitzel was transported to a pre-determined landing zone by the Washington County Ambulance Service and then flown to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries by Air Methods Helicopter.

Pelly was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident by the Washington County Coroner’s Office from injuries succumbed from the accident. Neither Stitzel or Pelly were wearing a helmet.

A member of the Indiana State Police was called to the scene to reconstruct the accident, which remains under investigation.

Deputy Joe Johnson is the lead investigating officer and was assisted by Deputy Seth Goode, Deputy Jason Hartsfield, Trooper Kyle Taylor, Sheriff Brent Miller and members of the Washington County Ambulance Service, Gibson Township Volunteer Fire Department and the Washington County Coroner’s Office.