Indy woman charged with reckless homicide after driving twice the speed limit leading to deadly crash

INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis woman is in jail accused of reckless homicide following a deadly crash on the city’s northeast side earlier this year.

Driving 84 miles per hour, police say the woman behind the wheel of a red Ford slammed into the side of a gray Hyundai, flipping the victim’s car onto the passenger side.

The driver of that Hyundai, 52-year-old Lashauna Robinson, died on scene.

The crash took place at the intersection of 56th and Arlington on a Sunday afternoon in mid-April.

The posted speed limit on that stretch of road is 40 miles per hour.

More than two months later, 64-year-old Latonia Brooks is now charged with reckless homicide and operating a vehicle on a controlled substance.

“IMPD encourages people to plan ahead and be responsible,” said IMPD officer Amanda Hibschman.

IMPD said the criminal case can serve an important safety message for drivers everywhere and urges everyone to be safe behind the wheel.

“Be responsible while you’re driving. Make sure you’re paying attention. These instances can cost people their lives and it’s just not worth the risk,” said Hibschman.

According to the affidavit in the case, test results show Brooks had THC in her system at the time of the crash.

The suspect allegedly told police she smokes weed but denied using any that day.

Court records claim the victim had methadone in her system when she was killed.

Police say programs like Sober Ride Indiana and others can help people get home safe, because many substances can lead to impaired driving.

“Driving under the influence includes substances other than alcohol.  Prescription drugs can cause impairment just as much as too much alcohol,” said Hibschman.

The suspect is being held on a $160,000 bond.

Brooks is due in court for an initial hearing on Wednesday.

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