Muncie – Yesterday shortly before 3:30 p.m., Pendleton District Sergeant Jeff Zeiger was south bound on SR 67 in Delaware County working crash reduction patrol. In the area of Cowan Road, he observed a north bound Chevrolet Trail Blazer traveling at a high rate of speed. A radar clock confirmed the vehicle was traveling at 96 M.P.H. in the 55 M.P.H zone.

Sergeant Zeiger turned on the vehicle and got it stopped. When he made contact with the driver, Melissa Lyght, age 29 of Muncie, he observed she had her three year old son and six month old daughter in the vehicle with her. Further investigation found Lyght to be operating while intoxicated, testing more than twice the legal limit of .08% B.A.C.

Lyght was charged with Operating While Intoxicated with a passenger less than 18 years of age, Class “D” Felony, and Two Counts of Neglect of a Dependant, Class “D” Felony. Lyght was lodged in the Delaware County Jail. The children were released to a relative.

This incident serves as a reminder that impaired drivers are not just a “late night phenomenon.” Impaired drivers can be found driving on Hoosier highways at anytime. The Indiana State Police remains committed to reducing crashes and monitoring the top causes for crashes. Motorists are encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911. Give a vehicle description, location, and direction of travel. Never follow an impaired driver.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.