Indianapolis, January 16, 2026
A high-speed chase involving a Chevrolet Cavalier and Indiana State Troopers ended with the arrest of Amber McDowell, a 35-year-old Indianapolis woman. The pursuit took place on snow-covered US 31 and reached speeds nearing 100 mph. After losing control and crashing, McDowell fled on foot but was apprehended. She exhibited signs of intoxication and faced several charges including resisting law enforcement and reckless driving, as well as having two active warrants.
High-Speed Chase on Snow-Covered US 31 Ends with Arrest of Indianapolis Woman
Indianapolis, Indiana – A 35-year-old Indianapolis woman was arrested after leading Indiana State Troopers on a high-speed chase that ended in a crash on snow-covered US 31.
Details of the Incident
The pursuit began around 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday when troopers observed a Chevrolet Cavalier speeding northbound on US 31 near 14th Road. As a trooper approached, the driver, identified as Amber McDowell, began driving erratically and overtaking other vehicles. Upon activating emergency lights, McDowell accelerated, reaching speeds approaching 100 mph.
Near mile marker 232, McDowell lost control of the vehicle but regained it momentarily. However, as the chase approached State Road 4, she drove onto the exit ramp, lost control due to snow coverage, and crashed into a concrete ditch. After the crash, McDowell fled on foot but was apprehended by troopers after being subdued with a taser.
Charges and Background
McDowell exhibited signs of intoxication and had two active warrants at the time of her arrest. Following medical clearance at the hospital, she was taken to the Marshall County Jail. McDowell faces several charges, including resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, operating while intoxicated (prior and endangerment), resisting law enforcement, and reckless driving, along with the two active warrants.
Weather Conditions
Snow-covered roads contributed significantly to the vehicle’s loss of control during the pursuit, highlighting the importance of cautious driving under such conditions. Authorities continue to remind the public that inclement weather can pose serious risks to drivers.
Recent Related Incidents
This incident follows a series of high-speed chases involving women in the region, raising questions about public safety and law enforcement procedures. For instance, on January 14, 2026, another woman led law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit in Marshall County for driving nearly twice the speed limit. Similarly, on December 27, 2025, a police chase in Glendale, Ohio, resulted in a crash near Paycor Stadium, emphasizing ongoing concerns about the implications of such reckless behavior.
Conclusion
The events surrounding Amber McDowell’s high-speed chase underscore the necessity for safe driving practices, especially during adverse weather conditions. Community awareness and collaboration with law enforcement can help enhance public safety in Indianapolis. As residents, supporting local law enforcement efforts while promoting responsible driving behavior is vital for the well-being of our neighborhoods and businesses. Let’s remain engaged with the local community and encourage safe driving to foster a positive environment for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What led to the high-speed chase on US 31?
- A trooper observed a Chevrolet Cavalier speeding northbound on US 31 near 14th Road, prompting an attempt to stop the vehicle. The driver, Amber McDowell, fled, leading to a high-speed chase.
- What were the charges against Amber McDowell?
- McDowell faces charges including resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, operating while intoxicated (prior and endangerment), resisting law enforcement, and reckless driving, along with two active warrants.
- How did weather conditions affect the pursuit?
- The snow-covered roads contributed to McDowell losing control of the vehicle during the chase, leading to a crash into a concrete ditch.
- Have there been similar incidents recently?
- Yes, there have been recent high-speed chases involving women in the region, such as the January 14, 2026, incident in Marshall County and the December 27, 2025, crash in Glendale, Ohio.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Location | Marshall County, Indiana |
| Suspect | Amber McDowell, 35, Indianapolis |
| Vehicle | Chevrolet Cavalier |
| Charges | Resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, operating while intoxicated (prior and endangerment), resisting law enforcement, reckless driving, two active warrants |
| Weather Conditions | Snow-covered roads |
| Recent Similar Incidents | January 14, 2026, Marshall County; December 27, 2025, Glendale, Ohio |
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