DeMotte, Indiana — A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Monday, June 8, 2026, has claimed the life of 19-year-old Marjorie Rottier, as authorities continue a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision on State Road 10 near County Road 1100 West.
The incident occurred at approximately 12:17 p.m., prompting multiple 911 calls reporting a serious crash involving several vehicles and multiple injured occupants.
Sequence of Events Under Investigation
According to preliminary findings from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department, supported by witness statements and on-scene evidence, a 2013 Ford Fusion driven by 26-year-old Kiana Bessette of Wheatfield, Indiana, was traveling eastbound on State Road 10 when it struck the rear of a 2006 Mini Cooper operated by 19-year-old Marjorie Rottier of Lowell, Indiana.
At the time of the collision, Rottier was traveling with two juvenile passengers in her vehicle.
The force of the impact caused the Mini Cooper to be pushed into the westbound lane, where it was subsequently struck by a 2024 Ford F-150 driven by 45-year-old Lori Asztalof of Lowell, Indiana.
Following the initial impact, the Ford Fusion continued eastbound and collided with a 2019 Ford Flex operated by 64-year-old Penny Diehl of Rensselaer, Indiana, who was also traveling with two juvenile passengers.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the chaotic scene. Multiple agencies worked together to provide medical aid, extrication, and traffic control under difficult conditions.
All occupants across the involved vehicles were reported to have been properly restrained with seat belts, and airbags deployed during the crash, reflecting the severity of the impact despite safety measures being in place.
Due to adverse weather conditions at the time of the incident, air medical transport was unable to respond, requiring all injured individuals to be transported by ground ambulance.
The injured were taken by Keener Township EMS and Newton County EMS to regional trauma centers in Crown Point, Indiana, and Kankakee, Illinois, for emergency treatment and evaluation.
Fire personnel from the Keener Township Fire Department assisted at the scene, performing extrications for several trapped occupants. Additional support was provided by the Newton County Sheriff’s Department and the DeMotte Police Department.
A Life Lost Too Soon
Despite the rapid response and life-saving efforts from first responders, Marjorie Rottier, 19, of Lowell, Indiana, suffered fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Her passing has left family, friends, and the wider community in mourning, as they come to terms with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a young life with so much ahead.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to actively investigate the circumstances that led to the collision. The roadway remained closed for an extended period as investigators documented evidence, reconstructed the scene, and worked to determine contributing factors.
Officials have confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Jasper County Coroner’s Office.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
She will not be forgotten.
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