In Perry County, Indiana, a plea deal has brought legal resolution to a crash from February 13, 2024, in which a 15-year-old pedestrian was struck on 12th Street in Tell City. On October 15, 2025, Hannah Kleeman pleaded guilty to a felony charge of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing serious bodily injury. The crash occurred around 7:14 a.m. near the intersection of State Road 66 and Tell Street, when Kleeman struck the teen as she was crossing.

Kleeman, who was 35 years old at the time, was found to be impaired by marijuana.

The victim sustained serious injuries and required months of recovery. Perry County Prosecutor Samantha Hurst praised the victim’s courage, calling her “a strong and brave young lady” and commending the family’s perseverance throughout the legal process. Under the terms of the plea, Kleeman was placed on probation for just under five months after receiving credit for time served. Her driver’s license will be suspended for six months.

She must also undergo substance-abuse and mental-health evaluations, complete any recommended treatment, and attend a Victim Impact Panel designed to help offenders understand the real-life consequences of impaired driving. The case underscores the community impact of impaired driving in rural Perry County, where pedestrian safety remains a serious concern.

Tell City residents have long called for safer streets, particularly in busy pedestrian areas like 12th Street. The plea deal marks a measure of accountability and a reminder of the human cost behind every impaired-driving crash. Local officials have not indicated whether any further appeals or charges will follow. For now, the focus remains on the victim’s recovery and the ongoing effort to prevent similar tragedies. Everyone in the community is urged to drive responsibly—never under the influence and always with full attention on the road.

One careful decision behind the wheel can save a life, a family, and a future. Safe driving is not just a law, it’s an act of care for one another.