The unexpected passing of 16-year-old Kole Shewmaker has left the community in mourning after a tragic collision in Columbus. Kole was confirmed deceased on Wednesday evening, November 16, 2023, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, following injuries sustained in the collision.
The incident occurred on South Marr Road the previous Tuesday afternoon, involving two vehicles. According to reports from the Columbus Police Department, the collision occurred when Luis Y. Otero, 16, lost control of a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, crossing the center line and colliding head-on with a 2016 Toyota Corolla driven by Cheryl A. Hanner, 66, of Norman, Indiana.
Kole Shewmaker and Luis Y. Otero, both 16 and residents of Columbus, sustained injuries in the collision. Kole was airlifted in extremely critical condition to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. Luis Y. Otero remains in critical condition at the same hospital.
Additionally, Cheryl A. Hanner was also transported to the hospital to receive treatment for major injuries that, fortunately, are not deemed life-threatening.
The Bartholomew County Accident Reconstruction Team is conducting an investigation into the collision to determine the sequence of events leading to this tragic accident.
The family of Kole Shewmaker will release details regarding his obituary and funeral arrangements, providing an opportunity for the community to come together, offer support, and honor the memory of a young life lost too soon.
