DWI arrest after vehicle hits patrol car head-on in U.S. 41 incident

Posted: Nov 1, 2023 / 10:10 AM EDT

Updated: Nov 1, 2023 / 06:21 PM EDT

KNOX COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — A driver heading the wrong way reportedly ran head-on into an Indiana State Police patrol vehicle before being arrested for DWI.

That’s according to ISP, who said the incident occurred at 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday night on U.S. 41 near the intersection with Hart Street. Police said a trooper saw the vehicle driving north in the southbound lanes. In an attempt to stop the vehicle the trooper reportedly drove through the median, and stopped in the passing lane with his emergency lights activated, blocking the path of the vehicle.

While the driver did slow down, she reportedly failed to stop and ended up colliding into the front of the ISP vehicle causing minor damage.

Picture shows two vehicles on a dark road at night, to the left is the arrested person's vehicle with its front bumper touching an Indiana State Police patrol vehicle on the right side. In the background an unrelated vehicle is seen with its headlights on. (image courtesy of the Indiana State Police) — Image of “collision” between wrong-way driver and ISP patrol vehicle. (Image courtesy of the Indiana State Police)

The driver, 61-year-old Vanessa Gadsen, of Vincennes, reportedly showed signs of impairment and failed field sobriety tests. Police said a preliminary chemical test showed that Gadsen was under the influence of oxycodone and cannabinoids.

Gadsen was placed under arrest for the following preliminary charges;