Grace Beard, 24, Killed in Tragic Three-Vehicle Crash on North Main Street in Goshen
GOSHEN, Ind. — A wave of heartbreak has swept through the small and close-knit community of Goshen following a tragic accident that claimed the life of 24-year-old Grace Beard on Tuesday afternoon, June 17, 2025. The deadly three-vehicle crash occurred just before 2:30 p.m. along the 800 block of North Main Street, also known as State Road 15, a well-traveled stretch of road now marked by sorrow.
According to preliminary reports from the Goshen Police Department, the collision involved a northbound SUV, a compact sedan, and a commercial delivery vehicle. Grace Beard, who was behind the wheel of the sedan, suffered catastrophic injuries in the crash. Emergency responders arrived quickly and rendered aid, but despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The initial investigation suggests that Beard’s vehicle was struck during a chain-reaction crash, possibly triggered by an abrupt traffic stop or unsafe maneuver. The specifics of the collision, including fault and sequence of impact, remain under investigation by both local authorities and accident reconstruction specialists. Police have not yet released further details about the drivers of the other two vehicles, but they confirmed that no other fatalities occurred, though at least two individuals were transported to the hospital with injuries that were described as non-life-threatening.
A Life Cut Tragically Short
Grace Beard was known throughout Goshen not only for her radiant smile but also for her dedication to service and kindness. Friends and family say she had an “old soul” and a heart that gravitated toward helping others. A 2019 graduate of Goshen College, she had been working as a youth mentor and was considering a return to school to pursue a graduate degree in counseling. Those close to her say she had a passion for supporting teens and young adults through their hardest moments—something she did with grace and empathy.
“She was the kind of person who made people feel safe just by being around her,” said longtime friend and roommate Ellie Carlson. “She never sought recognition, but everyone knew the kind of love she gave to this world.”
Community in Mourning
News of the crash quickly spread throughout the town, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences on social media. Local churches, schools, and community centers have opened their doors for grief counseling and prayer vigils in honor of Grace.
A candlelight memorial is being planned for Friday evening at Shanklin Park, where friends and neighbors are expected to gather in remembrance. Organizers have invited anyone who knew Grace or who has been touched by the tragedy to come, light a candle, and share a memory.
Mayor Jeremy Stutsman issued a statement on Wednesday morning offering his condolences to the Beard family and reflecting on the fragility of life:
“Our community has lost a bright young woman whose impact went far beyond her years. We mourn with the Beard family and pledge our support to them during this unimaginably difficult time.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Goshen Police Department and Indiana State Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal crash. They have asked anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has dashcam footage from the area between 2:15 and 2:30 p.m. on June 17 to come forward to assist in their efforts.
While authorities work to piece together the events of that afternoon, the community continues to grapple with the sudden loss. A roadside memorial now marks the crash site—flowers, handwritten notes, and a photograph of Grace resting beneath a streetlight on North Main Street, a place that will forever carry the memory of a life taken too soon.
Final Arrangements
Funeral services for Grace Beard are currently being arranged by the Yoder-Culp Funeral Home in Goshen. Her family has requested privacy as they navigate this period of overwhelming grief but issued a statement thanking first responders, friends, and community members for their prayers and support.
As the investigation proceeds and preparations are made to lay Grace to rest, Goshen holds tightly to the memory of a young woman who brought light to so many and whose absence now leaves an indelible void.