Tragedy Near Hanover: One Dead, Three Injured in Off-Road Vehicle Crash
HANOVER, IN — June 22, 2025 — A devastating off-road vehicle (ORV) crash that occurred Saturday night near Hanover has claimed the life of a woman and left three others injured, shaking the rural Jefferson County community and launching a full investigation by Indiana Conservation Officers.
According to preliminary reports from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), 75-year-old Charles Howell was operating the ORV along a private wooded trail in the vicinity of Hanover when the vehicle suddenly lost control. The crash tragically resulted in the death of 56-year-old Paula McAlister, one of the three passengers riding in the off-road utility vehicle.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene shortly after 9:15 p.m., where they found the overturned ORV and four individuals in various states of distress. Paula McAlister was pronounced dead at the scene by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders and bystanders.
Three others, including Howell, sustained injuries ranging from moderate to serious. All were transported by ground or air ambulance to area hospitals for treatment. As of Sunday afternoon, two of the injured remain hospitalized, while one has since been released.
An Ongoing Investigation
Indiana Conservation Officers are leading the investigation and have confirmed that the ORV was being operated on private property when the crash occurred. Early findings suggest that the utility vehicle may have entered a steep embankment or uneven terrain, causing it to roll over multiple times.
Investigators are currently examining multiple factors that may have contributed to the crash, including terrain conditions, speed, and the use (or lack) of safety restraints. At this time, officials have not released information indicating whether alcohol or drugs played any role in the incident, though toxicology testing is a standard part of the investigation.
“This is a deeply tragic event, and our hearts go out to the family of Paula McAlister,” said a spokesperson for the Indiana DNR Law Enforcement Division. “We are working diligently to understand exactly what happened so that we may bring clarity to the victims’ families and also raise awareness about ORV safety.”
Remembering Paula McAlister
Friends and family of Paula McAlister are reeling from the loss of a woman they describe as vibrant, nurturing, and full of life. A lifelong resident of southern Indiana, Paula was known in her community for her generous spirit and love of nature. She was a mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose sudden passing leaves behind a heartbroken family and many cherished memories.
“Paula lit up every room she entered,” said her niece, Karen Mills, through tears. “She loved being outdoors and was happiest surrounded by family. She had so much life left to live.”
McAlister had been enjoying a weekend gathering with longtime friends and relatives when the tragic accident occurred. What was intended to be a relaxing evening ride turned into a moment of horror that now marks an immense and irreversible loss.
A Call for ORV Safety Awareness
This incident marks yet another sobering reminder of the potential dangers associated with off-road vehicles when not used with strict safety precautions. Conservation officers urge all Indiana residents who operate or ride in ORVs to follow safety guidelines, including:
- Always wear seatbelts or safety harnesses if available.
- Wear helmets, especially for younger passengers or in high-risk areas.
- Do not exceed manufacturer-recommended passenger limits.
- Avoid steep or uneven terrain, particularly at night or in low visibility.
- Never operate an ORV under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Officials emphasized that while ORVs offer a recreational escape, they come with real risk if not handled with care.
Community Response and Next Steps
As the investigation continues, support is pouring in for the families affected by the crash. A local church is planning a memorial service for Paula McAlister later this week, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist her family with funeral expenses and medical costs for the other injured passengers.
Neighbors and community leaders have described the incident as a sobering blow to a quiet, tight-knit area that is now rallying to support one another in the wake of unimaginable grief.
“Our community may be small, but our hearts are big,” said Jefferson County Councilwoman Dana Russell. “We will stand by these families every step of the way.”
The Indiana DNR is expected to release a full report once the investigation is complete. In the meantime, community members and law enforcement alike are focusing on healing, remembrance, and reinforcing a message of safety that could help prevent future tragedies.
Rest in peace, Paula McAlister. Your light and laughter will not be forgotten. 🕊️