McCrammer arrested following crash; Barth of Culver sustained non-life threatening injuries

Key Takeaways:

• A single-vehicle accident occurred on January 1st at approximately 2:30 a.m. in Marshall County.
• Driver, 21-year-old Karzdon McCrammer, collided with a tree after his vehicle ran off the road.
• Passenger, 19-year-old Grace Barth, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
• McCrammer admitted to consuming alcohol; his blood alcohol content was over twice the legal limit.
• He was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated Causing Serious Bodily Injury, a Level 5 Felony.

Early Morning Crash in Marshall County

In the early hours of January 1st, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a single-vehicle accident occurred on Plymouth Laporte Trail near 7th Road in Marshall County. According to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, a northbound 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee ran off the roadway and collided with a tree on the east side of the road.

Passenger Sustains Serious Injuries

The driver, 21-year-old Karzdon McCrammer of Rochester, was accompanied by 19-year-old passenger, Grace Barth of Culver. Barth sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries to her legs and back. Emergency responders transported her to Memorial Hospital for medical treatment.

Driver Admitted to Drinking Prior to Accident

Authorities reported that McCrammer admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages before the collision. On-site officers conducted standardized field sobriety tests, which McCrammer failed. He was subsequently transported to Plymouth Hospital for a certified chemical test.

Blood Alcohol Content Over Twice Legal Limit

Test results revealed that McCrammer’s blood alcohol content was more than twice the legal limit. This significant level of intoxication raised serious concerns about his ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.

Legal Consequences and Charges Filed

Following the test results, McCrammer was booked at the Marshall County Jail. He faces charges for Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated Causing Serious Bodily Injury, classified as a Level 5 Felony under Indiana law. This charge reflects the severity of the incident and the injuries sustained by his passenger.

Multiple Agencies Respond to Incident

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by several agencies, including the Plymouth Police Department, Plymouth Fire and EMS, Walkerton Fire and EMS, and Lyon’s Wrecker Service. The collaborative efforts of these agencies were crucial in responding to the emergency and providing aid.

Presumption of Innocence

It is important to note that the charges filed are based on an affidavit of probable cause and are merely allegations at this stage. McCrammer is presumed innocent throughout the legal proceedings. He is entitled to representation by counsel and a trial by jury, during which the state must provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before any judgment of guilt can be made.

The incident highlights the serious consequences of driving under the influence and the risks posed to both drivers and passengers. As the legal process unfolds, the case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible decision-making.