FORT WAYNE, Ind. — A 93-year-old woman has tragically lost her life following a crash on Monday afternoon on Fort Wayne’s north side. The incident, which involved a high-speed police chase and a suspect fleeing from law enforcement, has left the community reeling and shaken. Indiana State Police confirmed today that the collision, which occurred after a dramatic pursuit, ultimately led to the death of Carolyn Hutchinson, a long-time Fort Wayne resident. The crash highlights the tragic consequences of high-speed chases and the dangers they pose to innocent bystanders.
The sequence of events began around 1:20 p.m. when officers with the Allen County Drug Task Force attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a white 2004 Cadillac driven by 24-year-old Tyler Alberding of Fort Wayne. The officers had no idea that their attempt to pull over Alberding would soon escalate into a high-speed chase. Instead of complying with the traffic stop, Alberding made the decision to flee, driving northbound on North Clinton Street. This sparked an immediate pursuit by law enforcement, who followed him through the busy streets of Fort Wayne.
As the chase continued, the white Cadillac driven by Alberding collided with two vehicles at the intersection of North Clinton Street and Wallen Road. The first vehicle involved was a silver 2016 Subaru, driven by 93-year-old Carolyn Hutchinson. Hutchinson, a beloved member of the Fort Wayne community, was tragically caught in the crossfire of a situation that should have never occurred. Hutchinson sustained critical injuries in the crash and was rushed to a local hospital for treatment. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she later succumbed to her injuries, and her death was confirmed by the Allen County Coroner’s Office. Hutchinson’s family has since been notified of her passing, and they are undoubtedly grieving the loss of a woman who lived a long and fulfilling life, only to have it tragically cut short by a reckless act.
The second vehicle involved in the collision was a red 2015 Ford truck driven by 80-year-old Larry Zant, also of Fort Wayne. Zant was seriously injured in the crash and was hospitalized for treatment. As of now, authorities have not released further details regarding Zant’s current condition, but it is clear that his injuries were significant. The crash, which could have been entirely avoided, has left Zant and his loved ones facing a painful and uncertain road to recovery.
Following the crash, Tyler Alberding was quickly apprehended by officers with the Allen County Sheriff’s Department. He was taken into custody and is currently facing multiple preliminary charges. These charges include resisting law enforcement resulting in death or catastrophic injury, resisting law enforcement resulting in serious bodily injury, driving while suspended causing death or catastrophic injury, leaving the scene of a fatal crash, and dealing in cocaine or narcotic drugs. The addition of narcotic charges raises further concerns about the motivations behind Alberding’s flight from law enforcement, as well as the dangers associated with the substances involved.
Alberding’s reckless decision to flee from the police has resulted in tragic consequences for two innocent people, one of whom has now lost their life, and another who is left with serious injuries. The pursuit, which was intended to stop a suspect from evading law enforcement, instead resulted in the irreversible loss of life and the devastation of families. The question remains: was it worth the risk? The decision to flee from police, especially at high speeds, is one that is often fraught with danger—not just for the suspect but for innocent civilians who may be caught in the chaos. In this case, that risk has resulted in the tragic death of a 93-year-old woman, and serious harm to another individual.
As the investigation into the crash continues, authorities are working to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. They are reviewing the details of the chase and examining all available evidence to determine what led to the collision and what could have been done to prevent it. The investigation is still ongoing, and it is expected that more information will be released as the case progresses.
In the aftermath of the crash, law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. Authorities are particularly interested in speaking with witnesses who may have observed the events leading up to the collision or have any relevant information that could help piece together the full picture. The Indiana State Police and the Allen County Sheriff’s Department are working together to gather evidence and ensure that justice is served.
This tragic incident has left a profound impact on the Fort Wayne community, which is now mourning the loss of a woman who, at 93 years old, was taken from them far too soon. Carolyn Hutchinson, a mother, grandmother, and community member, was beloved by those who knew her. Her passing has left a void in the lives of her family and friends, and her memory will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her. The loss is even more heartbreaking given that Hutchinson had no involvement in the events that led to her death—she was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
As for the suspect, Tyler Alberding, his actions have irrevocably altered the lives of two families. While he will likely face legal consequences for his role in the crash, no amount of punishment can bring back the life that was lost or undo the harm that has been caused. His reckless actions have resulted in an irreversible tragedy, and the families affected by this event will never be the same.
As the investigation continues, the Fort Wayne community holds its breath, hoping for justice for Carolyn Hutchinson and Larry Zant, and for answers that will help bring clarity to this senseless tragedy. In the meantime, they continue to grieve the loss of a woman who was taken too soon and pray for the swift recovery of those injured in the crash.
The tragic loss of life in this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by high-speed chases and the need for careful consideration by law enforcement in pursuit situations. While stopping a suspect is essential, it is equally important to weigh the potential consequences of these pursuits, especially when innocent lives are at stake.
This is an active and ongoing investigation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Authorities are asking for anyone with information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation and ensure that justice is served.
