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In a gruesome, late-night collision in east Wichita, speed and alcohol are believed to be key contributing factors.
The crash claimed two lives, resulted in an arrest, and left the community reeling. Authorities are piecing together events from the scene at Central Avenue and Webb Road. This article breaks down every known fact, figure, and detail in a compelling, SEO-optimized format.
Incident Overview
Shortly after 9:35 p.m., Wichita Police responded to a multi-vehicle accident at the intersection of Central Avenue and Webb Road. A black Chevy truck traveling eastbound on Central collided with both a BMW and a Jeep, heading south on Webb.
Investigators have stated that both speed and alcohol are suspected to have played a role in the crash.
Victims & Individuals Involved
- BMW occupants: Two women — 42-year-old Lashea Bell and 25-year-old Aniah Bell, both from Wichita. Lashea died at the scene; Aniah was transported to a hospital and later pronounced dead.
- Jeep driver: A 41-year-old male sustained injuries but was treated on-scene and released.
- Chevy driver: An 80-year-old woman, treated at the hospital—once cleared, she was booked on two counts of second-degree murder.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Time of Crash | ~9:35 p.m. |
| Location | Intersection of Central Avenue & Webb Road, east Wichita |
| Vehicles Involved | Black Chevy truck, BMW, Jeep |
| BMW Occupants | Lashea Bell (42, deceased on scene), Aniah Bell (25, died later) |
| Jeep Driver | Male, 41, treated on scene, released |
| Chevy Driver | Female, 80, treated, then arrested |
| Charges | Two counts of second-degree murder against 80-year-old driver |
| Suspected Contributing Factors | Speed, alcohol suspected |
Law Enforcement Statement
Wichita Police Public Information Officer Kris Gupilan urged caution over the Labor Day weekend, emphasizing safe choices.
“If you’re driving out on this long Labor Day weekend and if you do plan on consuming alcoholic beverages, please take the proper precautions and make smart decisions to find alternative measures [about] how to get home safely.”
This underscores the broader call for responsible choices and safe driving during holiday periods.
Investigation Status
Law enforcement confirms that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are examining all available evidence and evaluating toxicology, vehicle speeds, and other forensic data to determine the exact sequence and dynamics of the crash.
Legal Implications
The 80-year-old woman faces serious consequences: she has been booked on two counts of second-degree murder.
These charges reflect the suspicion that negligent behavior—specifically speeding while impaired—led directly to the deaths of two individuals.
Community Impact
The crash is a stark reminder of the mix of factors that can turn vehicles into deadly weapons: high speed, alcohol impairment, and tragic timing. With two lives lost, a community is left searching for answers, and families are left devastated.
The deadly east Wichita crash that occurred just after 9:35 p.m. at Central Avenue and Webb Road has claimed two lives and led to the arrest of an 80-year-old driver.
The victims—Lashea and Aniah Bell—were both tragically killed. Speed and alcohol are key suspected factors, and with two second-degree murder charges filed, the case underscores the grave consequences of impaired driving.
As the investigation continues, it serves as a powerful cautionary tale: during holidays like Labor Day, safe, sober, and responsible driving isn’t just wise—it’s vital.