Sullivan County—On Sunday evening, January 20th, at 10:03, Indiana State Police and Sullivan County emergency agencies responded to a one-vehicle crash on Old US 41 just north of the Knox-Sullivan County line. The crash resulted in the death of the female passenger who was also the wife of the driver.

Preliminary investigation revealed a red, 2006, Dodge Charger was northbound on Old US 41 at a high rate of speed just north of Sullivan County road 1200 South. For reasons unknown, the vehicle left the roadway on the east side, traveled approximately 200 feet, before striking a tree head-on. The female passenger was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver was taken to Sullivan County Community Hospital with facial, leg, and internal injuries and may be transferred to another healthcare facility for further treatment. Seatbelts are believed to have not been in use and alcohol may be a factor.

Driver: Billy Soltermann, age 30, of Oaktown, IN.

Deceased Female Passenger (wife): Shanda Soltermann, age 28, of Oaktown, IN.
Family has been notified

The investigation is ongoing and the report will be submitted to the Sullivan County Prosecutor’s Office for review of any potential charges.

The crash was investigated by ISP Trooper Tyler VanNess. Assisting were ISP Trooper Mike Taylor, Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office, Sullivan County Coroner’s Office, Sullivan County EMS, and Haddon Township Fire/Rescue.

Under the law, criminal charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.