Ashley Kendall, 40, of South Bend, was killed in the crash that occurred just after 10 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, along State Road 933. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene near the La Quinta Inn and Suites, just south of Darden Road, after reports of a vehicle off the roadway.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a heavily damaged vehicle with Kendall inside as the sole occupant. Despite rapid response from emergency personnel, she was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.
Investigators from the St. Joseph County Police Department have been working to reconstruct the events leading to the collision. Preliminary findings suggest that speed may have been a contributing factor, though officials have not released a full analysis or identified any additional causes. The crash involved no other vehicles, and no bystanders were injured.
The stretch of State Road 933 near the crash site is characterized by a mix of hotels, restaurants, and steady nighttime traffic. Authorities temporarily restricted traffic flow in the area as they gathered evidence and ensured roadway safety. The investigation remains active, with officials reviewing witness statements and vehicle data.
Kendall’s identity was confirmed by local authorities the following day, with notification provided to her family. ABC57 News later confirmed she was the only person involved in the crash, bringing clarity to a community awaiting official details.
As investigators continue their work, those who knew Kendall are left mourning a sudden loss that has reverberated through the South Bend area. Authorities have emphasized the importance of safe driving practices along high-traffic corridors like State Road 933, particularly during nighttime hours when visibility and conditions can change rapidly. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
